1.07 Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Psychologist Abraham Maslow defined basic human needs as a hierarchy, a progression from simple physical needs to more complex emotional needs (see figure 1-2).

Types of Needs.

  • Physiological–food, shelter, water, sleep, oxygen.
  • Safety–security, stability, order, physical safety.
  • Love and belonging–affection, identification, companionship.
  • Esteem and recognition–self-esteem, self-respect, prestige, success, esteem of others.
  • Self-actualization–self-fulfillment, achieving one’s own capabilities.
  • Aesthetic–beauty, harmony, spiritual.
  • Relationship Between Levels of Needs.
  • According to Maslow, the basic physiological needs related to survival (food, water, etc.) must be met first of all.

These basic physiological needs have a greater priority over those higher on the pyramid. They must be met before the person can move on to higher level needs. In other words, a person who is starving will not be concentrating on building his self-esteem. A patient in severe pain will not be concerned with improving his interpersonal relationships.

Generally speaking, each lower level must be achieved before the next higher level(s) can be focused upon.

Figure 1-2. Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
Figure 1-2. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

Basic Nursing Education