Theory of Human Motivation
In 1943, Abraham Maslow proposed his Theory of Human Motivation. This theory is a collection of five basic human
needs that humans must satisfy in a specific hierarchy. In other words, the most basic needs are fulfilled in
succession as a road leading to the higher needs. This theory is usually illustrated in a human motivation
triangle. The most basic need is at the base of the triangle, and the needs rise in importance to the fifth,
highest need at the top of the pyramid.
A sixth need, self-transcendence, is sometimes grouped with the fifth, but often stands alone. Instead of
studying weak individuals to find exceptions to the rule, Maslow went against the norm at the time and used
exemplary subjects that exhibited extraordinary intelligence and social standards, such as Albert Einstein and
Eleanor Roosevelt, in his study of human motivation.
Physiological Needs
The first, basic needs at the base of the Human Motivation pyramid are physiological needs. These needs include the
needs necessary for the body to survive, such as the need to breathe, need to drink, need to regulate homeostasis,
need to eat, and need to dispose of bodily wastes. These are the needs that take priority in the human’s ability to
survive. All other needs are second to these basic needs. If these needs are not fulfilled, the individual will not
only lack human motivation, but also not be able to survive.
Safety Needs
The second section of the Human Motivation pyramid is safety needs. After the basic physiological needs are
satisfied, the need for safety and security is necessary. Safety needs include physical safety from harm, security
of employment and finances, family security, health security, and security of personal property.
Love/Belonging Needs
The third layer of the Human Motivation pyramid is love and belonging needs. These needs include the needs of
friendship, sexual intimacy, and a supportive family. An absence of these feelings can produce loneliness, anxiety,
and depression, and may be associated with diseases such as hear disease. The sense of love and belonging
encourages a healthy individual.
Esteem Needs
The fourth level of the Human Motivation pyramid is esteem. This includes being respected, having self-respect, and
respecting others. By engaging in activities with others, an individual increases esteem. There are two basic
levels of esteem needs. The first level includes respect and fame. This level is usually considered dependent on
others for reassurance. The second level includes confidence and achievement. This level is less dependent on
others.
Self-Actualization Needs
The fifth and top level of the Human Motivation pyramid is self-actualization. This is the instinctual need for an
individual to make the most of unique abilities and to strive to be the best. According to Maslow, individuals that
have achieved self-actualization are embracing of realities, spontaneous in ideas, creative, interested in problem
solving, appreciate life, have a system of morality, and judge others without prejudice.
Self-Transcendence Needs
This part of Human Motivation is often grouped with self-actualization. This need includes spiritual needs. It is
often believed that self-actualization cannot be achieved without self-transcendence, which is why this need is
often considered a sixth need. In other words, it is thought that an individual cannot make the most of his/her
unique abilities without experiencing self-transcendence.
The Order of Needs
While Maslow’s human motivation theory indicates that these needs must be obtained in order, many other researchers
disagree. Many researchers acknowledge the validity of the needs, yet argue that the order has no meaning and
believe that the needs can be obtained in any order useful to the individual. Theorists have also argued for
discounting the need for self-transcendence, due to the lack of standard religious beliefs in many humans.
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