learning theories maslow's hierarchy of needs - learning theories

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

HUMANIST THEORIES, MOTIVATION THEORIES

Summary: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (often represented as a

pyramid with �ve levels of needs) is a motivational theory in

psychology that argues that while people aim to meet basic needs,

they seek to meet successively higher needs in the form of a

pyramid.

Originator: Abraham Maslow in 1943.

Key terms: de�ciency needs, growth needs, physiological, safety,

belongingness, esteem, self-actualization

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Abraham H. Maslow felt as though conditioning theories did not

adequately acapture the complexity of human behavior. In a 1943

paper called A Theory of Human Motivation, Maslow presented the

idea that human actions are directed toward goal attainment. Any

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given behavior could satisfy several functions at the same time; for

instance, going to a bar could satisfy one’s needs for self-esteem and

for social interaction.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs has often been represented in a

hierarchial pyramid with �ve levels. The four levels (lower-order

needs) are considered physiological needs, while the top level of the

pyramid is considered growth needs. The lower level needs must be

satis�ed before higher-order needs can in�uence behavior. The levels

are as follows (see pyramid in Figure 1 below).

Self-actualization – includes morality, creativity, problem

solving, etc.

Esteem – includes con�dence, self-esteem, achievement,

respect, etc.

Belongingness – includes love, friendship, intimacy, family,

etc.

Safety – includes security of environment, employment,

resources, health, property, etc.

Physiological – includes air, food, water, sex, sleep, other

factors towards homeostasis, etc.

Figure 1. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Pyramid.

Deprivation Needs

The �rst four levels are considered de�ciency or deprivation needs

(“D-needs”) in that their lack of satisfaction causes a de�ciency that

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motivates people to meet these needs. Physiological needs, the lowest

level on the hierarchy, include necessities such as air, food, and

water. These tend to be satis�ed for most people, but they become

predominant when unmet. During emergencies, safety needs such as

health and security rise to the forefront. Once these two levels are

met, belongingness needs, such as obtaining love and intimate

relationships or close friendships, become important. The next level,

esteem needs, include the need for recognition from others,

con�dence, achievement, and self-esteem.

Growth Needs

The highest level is self-actualization, or the self-ful�llment. Behavior

in this case is not driven or motivated by de�ciencies but rather one’s

desire for personal growth and the need to become all the things that

a person is capable of becoming (Maslow, 1970).

Criticisms

While a useful guide for generally understanding why students

behave the way that they do and in determining how learning may be

a�ected by physiological or safety de�ciencies, Maslow’s Hierarchy

of Needs has its share of criticisms. Some critics have noted

vagueness in what is considered a “de�ciency”; what is a de�ciency

for one is not necessarily a de�ciency for another. Secondly, there

seem to be various exceptions that frequently occur. For example,

some people often risk their own safety to rescue others from

danger.

For more information about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, see:

Maslow’s book: Hierarchy of Needs: A Theory of Human

Motivation. Maslow’s classic publication — perhaps essential

guides and ideas.

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reading for psychology students, educators and professionals.

Maslow’s book: Toward a Psychology of Being. Human

�ourishing — a useful book that helps you

understand reaching self-actualization (sometimes called

“�ow” or “positive psychology.” One of Maslow’s best.

You are welcome to share or cite this summary article. Citation:

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. (2016, March 04). Retrieved from:

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