5.4 Humanistic Theory of Motivation
Questions to consider:
- What needs must be met before we can be motivated to reach our full potential?
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a motivational theory developed by psychologist Abraham Maslow in the mid-20th century. It proposes that human needs can be categorized into a hierarchy of five levels, ranging from basic physiological needs to more complex psychological needs.
Physiological Needs |
These are the most fundamental needs that humans require for survival, such as food, water, shelter, warmth, and rest. |
Safety Needs |
Once physiological needs are met, individuals seek safety and security, including protection from physical harm, financial security, and stability. |
Love and Belonging Needs |
After physiological and safety needs are met, individuals seek social connections and relationships, including love, friendship, and a sense of belonging. |
Esteem Needs |
Once individuals feel a sense of belonging, they seek esteem, including self-esteem and the esteem of others. This includes respect, recognition, and achievement. |
Self-Actualization Needs |
At the highest level, individuals strive to achieve their full potential and fulfill their personal goals and aspirations. This includes personal growth, creativity, and self-fulfillment. According to Maslow, self-actualization is a natural human tendency and represents the highest form of psychological development. It involves a deep sense of personal fulfillment and a desire to achieve one’s goals and aspirations. |
According to Maslow’s theory, individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before moving on to higher level needs. The theory suggests that people are motivated by a hierarchy of needs, and that the fulfillment of these needs is necessary for personal growth, self-actualization, and well-being.
Case scenario
Meet Alex, a 25-year-old community college student who recently enrolled in a two-year program to become a licensed vocational nurse. Alex is a single parent with a three-year-old daughter and works part-time to support her family. Alex is excited about the opportunity to advance her career and provide a better life for her daughter. Read how Alex moves through the level of needs towards self-actualization:
Physiological Needs
Alex is often tired and stressed from working and taking care of her daughter. She struggles to find time to prepare healthy meals and often relies on fast food to save time. Alex’s lack of sleep and poor diet have started to affect her health, and she has developed digestive issues. Alex knows that she needs to take care of her basic needs to be able to focus on her studies, so she makes an effort to eat healthier and get more rest.
Safety Needs
Alex lives in a low-income area, and she is concerned about her safety and the safety of her daughter. She makes sure to always lock her doors and windows, and she installed a security system to protect her home. Alex also avoids walking alone at night and takes public transportation instead.
Love and Belonging Needs
Alex’s family lives far away, and she does not have a lot of friends in her community. She feels isolated and lonely at times, which affects her mood and motivation. Alex joins a student organization on campus for single parents, which helps her connect with other students who share similar experiences. Alex also enrolls her daughter in a daycare program on campus, which allows her to focus on her studies and provides her daughter with socialization opportunities.
Esteem Needs
Alex is proud of herself for pursuing her education and working hard to provide for her family. However, she sometimes feels self-doubt and imposter syndrome, wondering if she is good enough to succeed in her program. Alex seeks out support from her instructors and advisors, who provide her with positive feedback and encouragement. She also sets small achievable goals for herself and celebrates her accomplishments.
Self-Actualization Needs
Alex is passionate about helping others and has always dreamed of becoming a nurse. She is excited about the opportunities that her program will provide her and is determined to succeed. Alex strives to be the best student she can be and actively participates in class discussions and clinical experiences. She also seeks out mentorship opportunities with experienced nurses to learn from their experiences and knowledge.
Quick Quiz 5.4
- What are our most fundamental needs as humans?
- What needs must be met to be successful in your studies?