Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: Why It Still Matters for Your Boards

Abraham Maslow proposed that human motivation works as a hierarchy — we must satisfy lower needs before higher ones become motivating.

The 5 Levels (bottom to top):

1. **Physiological needs** — food, water, sleep, shelter
2. **Safety needs** — security, stability, freedom from fear
3. **Belongingness & Love** — friendship, intimacy, family
4. **Esteem needs** — achievement, respect, status
5. **Self-actualisation** — realising one's full potential

Indian Student Context: Think of it this way: A student who hasn't eaten (Level 1) can't concentrate on studying (Level 5). A student in a stressful home environment (Level 2) struggles to form friendships (Level 3).

• "Explain Maslow's hierarchy with examples" (4 marks)
• "Why is self-actualisation at the top?" (2 marks)
• "Critically evaluate Maslow's theory" (for 6-mark answers)

Critical Evaluation for 6-mark answers: The theory has cultural limitations — in collectivist societies like India, belongingness may rank higher than esteem. Also, the strict hierarchy is not always followed in real life.