Hierarchy of Needs (Maslow’s Hierarchy)

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory that explains human motivation through five levels. Starting with basic needs like food, water, and safety (Physiological and Safety needs), individuals then seek connection and belonging (Love and Social needs). Above that are esteem needs, which involve feeling competent and respected. At the top is self-actualization, the desire to realize one’s full potential and personal growth. The idea is that people are motivated to fulfill lower-level needs before pursuing higher-level goals, and achieving higher needs depends on satisfying the more fundamental ones first.