What does Maslow's hierarchy of needs propose?

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a well-established psychological theory that outlines a five-tier model of human needs, which ranges from the most basic, physiological requirements to the highest level, which is self-actualization. This framework suggests that individuals are motivated to fulfill basic needs such as food, water, and safety before they can focus on higher-level needs like love, esteem, and ultimately personal growth and self-fulfillment.

The theory posits that as one progresses up the hierarchy, the more advanced needs become relevant and important to an individual’s overall well-being and motivation. For example, after physiological and safety needs are met, social needs for belonging and love emerge, followed by esteem needs and, finally, self-actualization, which is the realization of one’s potential and creativity.

Understanding this hierarchy is crucial in psychology and related fields as it helps explain human behavior, motivations, and development stages across different contexts—personally, socially, and in various environments such as work or education. Therefore, this five-tier model is foundational to comprehending how needs drive behavior and are interrelated.