Maslow Theory
Maslow's theory is a basic part of many different schools of study. Colleges and universities in every nation study the main drivers of human nature, as defined by Maslow. Paper Masters has helped many students define and explain Maslow's theory on motivation and personality. Custom research papers on Maslow's theory can be ordered to help you write a perfect psychological explication of Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
Abraham Maslow (1908-1970) was an American psychologist who developed the theory of the hierarchy of needs. Best represented as a pyramid, his theory of development was described as stages in self-development. His theories were first presented in 1943 in an academic paper, later expanded in his 1954 book Motivation and Personality.Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
The following is a quick break-down of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs:
- Psychological Needs
- Safety Needs
- Love and Belonging
- Esteem Needs
- Acceptance
Maslow's hierarchy of needs begins with the most basic physiological needs at the bottom. These are required for human survival and include such things as food, sleep, sex and breathing. If these basic requirements are not met, the human being cannot function.
Second are safety needs. In the absence of safety, many people suffer from trauma, and require such things as physical or financial safety. At the third level are needs of love and belonging. Lack of emotional connection to others can produce detriments in the ability of the individual to connect with others. Friendship, intimacy and family are types of needs that categorize the third level.
Maslow Theory - Fourth Level
The fourth level of Maslow's hierarchy includes esteem. Maslow believed that all humans desire respect, to be accepted by the self and others. Low self-esteem may lead to inferiority complexes or depression. Finally, the highest level of Maslow's hierarchy is self-actualization. This is the individual's realization of his or her full potential. Only after all other levels are met can a person reach self-actualization.