Discuss the Maslow's Need-Hierarchy theory of motivation.
Answer – Maslow arranged needs in a hierarchy, beginning with basic needs and moving towards personal fulfilment.
Order | Need | Workplace example |
1 | Physiological: food, clothing, shelter and basic survival. | Adequate wages and basic facilities. |
2 | Safety and security: protection from physical and economic insecurity. | Job security, safe conditions and retirement benefits. |
3 | Affiliation or belonging: affection, friendship and acceptance. | Supportive teams and social interaction. |
4 | Esteem: respect, status, recognition and self-confidence. | Recognition, responsibility and meaningful achievement. |
5 | Self-actualisation: realising one's full potential. | Challenging work, creativity and opportunities to grow. |
The model assumes that behaviour is influenced by needs, that needs can be ordered, that a satisfied need generally loses motivational force and that higher needs become prominent after lower needs are reasonably satisfied. People can experience several needs together; managers should not apply the hierarchy mechanically.
Abraham Maslow presented the need-hierarchy theory in 1943.