Maslow’s hierarchy of needs

Maslow’s hierarchy is a motivation theory that groups needs into physiological, safety, social or belonging, esteem and self-actualisation needs. It proposes that relatively unsatisfied needs influence motivation, with more basic needs generally taking priority. In organisations, it encourages attention to security, relationships, recognition and opportunities to realise potential, as well as pay. The hierarchy is a conceptual guide, not a rule that every individual progresses through identical fixed steps or completely satisfies one need before experiencing another.