Need Hierarchy

Definition

The need hierarchy is a theory of motivation developed by psychologist Abraham Maslow, which suggests that individuals are motivated by five basic categories of needs that must be satisfied in a particular order. This concept is closely related to the topics of motivation, specifically the direction and intensity of behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Maslow's need hierarchy arranges human needs in a hierarchical order, with the most basic needs at the bottom and more complex needs at the top.
2. The five levels of Maslow's need hierarchy are physiological, safety, belongingness, esteem, and self-actualization needs.
3. Individuals are motivated to satisfy their needs in the order of the hierarchy, with lower-level needs taking precedence over higher-level needs.
4. Unmet needs at a lower level of the hierarchy can prevent an individual from being motivated to pursue higher-level needs.
5. The need hierarchy concept emphasizes that individuals are driven by multiple needs, and the intensity of their motivation is determined by the most pressing unsatisfied need.

Review Questions

• Explain how the need hierarchy theory relates to the direction and intensity of motivation.
  • The need hierarchy theory suggests that the direction of an individual's motivation is determined by the specific need they are trying to satisfy, with lower-level needs like physiological and safety needs taking priority over higher-level needs like belongingness and esteem. The intensity of their motivation is determined by the level of the hierarchy at which their most pressing unsatisfied need resides, with unmet lower-level needs creating a stronger motivational drive than unmet higher-level needs.
• Describe how the different levels of the need hierarchy influence an individual's behavior and decision-making.
  • According to the need hierarchy theory, an individual's behavior and decision-making will be primarily driven by the need they are currently trying to satisfy. For example, if an individual's physiological needs for food and water are not met, their behavior will be directed towards obtaining those basic necessities, rather than pursuing higher-level needs like belongingness or self-actualization. As lower-level needs become satisfied, the individual will then be motivated to pursue the next level of needs in the hierarchy, which will influence their subsequent behavior and choices.
• Evaluate the role of the need hierarchy theory in understanding the complexities of human motivation and how it can be applied in organizational settings.
  • The need hierarchy theory provides a useful framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of human motivation, recognizing that individuals are driven by a hierarchy of needs that must be satisfied in a particular order. This theory can be applied in organizational settings to help managers and leaders better understand the motivational drivers of their employees, and tailor rewards, recognition, and development opportunities to address their specific needs. By understanding the need hierarchy, organizations can create work environments and policies that support the satisfaction of employees' needs, ultimately leading to higher levels of engagement, productivity, and job satisfaction.

Related terms

Physiological Needs:

The most basic needs for survival, such as food, water, sleep, and air.

Safety Needs:

The need to feel secure, stable, and protected from harm or danger.

Belongingness Needs: The need to feel loved, accepted, and connected to others, such as through relationships and social belonging.