What does Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs propose must be satisfied before higher-level needs are pursued?

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory that prioritizes human needs in a hierarchical structure, depicting that certain foundational needs must be met before individuals can focus on higher-level aspirations. According to this model, deficiency needs, which encompass physiological needs, safety needs, love and belonging, and esteem needs, are fundamental to survival and psychological well-being.

Before an individual can pursue self-actualization— the realization of personal potential and self-fulfillment— they must first satisfy these deficiency needs. For example, without secure access to food, shelter, and safety, a person’s primary focus may remain on fulfilling these basic requirements, thereby hindering their ability to achieve higher aspirations.

Understanding this hierarchy underscores why deficiency needs are crucial: they form the baseline that enables individuals to thrive and eventually seek growth needs, such as self-esteem and self-actualization. This foundational aspect of Maslow's theory illustrates the essential nature of fulfilling these basic needs to progress toward more complex levels of motivation and personal development.