Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

Abraham Maslow published his famous psychological theory in 1943. Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a listing of human needs by rank of importance. It is usually displayed in a pyramid shape with the most basic necessities at the base of the pyramid. Each section of the figure has a single heading and then within each category are multiple needs that relate to the heading. The bottom of the pyramid is labeled Physiological. The needs within this category are breathing, homeostasis water, sleep, food, sex, clothing and shelter. The next level is labeled Safety and the needs within this category are personal security, financial security, health/well-being, and a safety net against accidents/illness. The next level is Social Needs and the needs are friendship, intimacy and a healthy relationship with family. The next one is Esteem which simply means all humans need to feel respected by others and have self-respect and confidence for themselves. Self Actualization topped Maslow's original hierarchy of needs, which is the motivation to acknowledge your own successes and possibilities. But later on in his life, Maslow added Self Transcendence to the top of the list. Transcendence is the need to have personal insights that change their world views or views of themselves.