Topic > Maslow's Theory of Motivation - 1050

From Maslow's point of view, “each drive is related to the state of satisfaction or dissatisfaction of the other drives” (1943, p. 370). Maslow's hierarchy is typically depicted as a pyramid, with lower-order needs at the bottom and higher-order needs at the top. This reflects the relationship of each need to others, with the most important category underlying physiological needs (Redmond, 2010). The basic level includes physiological needs such as oxygen, food and sleep, as well as safety and security needs such as shelter, order, routine and protection from anything that could cause harm. Maslow's higher order needs include social needs such as friendship and community, esteem needs such as recognition and status, and self-actualization needs represented by personal growth and the ability to realize one's potential. According to Maslow, basic-level needs have greater “prepotence,” that is, more power to influence human behavior. In terms of motivation, his theory suggests that the satisfaction of one need allows the emergence of the next need in the hierarchy. Multiple motivations can drive behavior, and the motivation to satisfy needs is often not consciously undertaken (Maslow,