Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a theory in psychology proposed by Abraham Maslow in his 1943 paper A Theory of Human Motivation, later extended. He formulated a hierarchy of human needs, and his theory contends that as the basic needs are met humans desire higher needs.
Physiological needs
The body aims to achieve homeostasis, an equilibrium of different factors (water content of the blood, salt content, sugar content, protein content, fat content, calcium content, oxygen content, constant hydrogen-ion level/acid-base level, constant blood temperature). This is obtained with food, drinks, sleep, shelter, fresh air, a proper temperature, etc.
Safety needs
When the physiological needs are met then the human turns towards safety needs. Safety attains the highest priority over all other desires.
Love needs (belonging needs)
Humans have a desire to belong to groups: clubs, work groups, religious groups, family, gangs, etc. We need to feel loved (sexual/nonsexual) by others, to be accepted by others. Performers appreciate applause. We need to be needed.
Esteem needs
This refers to the valuation given to oneself by other people.
Self-actualization
Self-actualization (a term originated by Kurt Goldstein) is the instinctoid need of a human to make the most of their unique abilities. Maslow described it as:
- A musician must make music, the artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself. What a man can be, he must be. This need we may call self-actualisation. (Motivation and Personality, 1954)
Maslow writes of self-actualizing people that:
- They embrace the facts and realities of the world (including themselves) rather than denying or avoiding them.
- They are spontaneous with ideas and actions.
- They are creative.
- They are interested in solving problems; often the problems of others. Solving these problems is often a key focus of life.
- They feel a closeness to (at least some) other people and appreciate life in general.
- They have a self-created system of morality.
- They judge others objectively rather than with prejudice.
While other needs can be met fully, self-actualization is seen as "growing", i.e. as a continuing driving force.
http://www.wordiq.com/definition/Maslow%27s_hierarchy_of_needs
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