Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Abraham Maslow’s widely acknowledged need hierarchy theory evolved in 1940s hold good even today for having a good understanding of human motivation. The theory has tremendous effect on modern management approach to motivation. Basing upon his experience on human behavior, Maslow came to the conclusion that a person’s motivational needs can be put in a hierarchical order.
Maslow found five levels in his need hierarchy. They, from bottom to top are as follows −
Physiological Needs
Basic needs like hunger, thirst, sleep need primary attention while motivating employees. These needs once fulfilled no longer motivate. However, existence of these needs largely hampers employees’ performance.
Safety Needs
It is human nature to feel safe and secure everywhere. Maslow emphasized emotional and physical safety. Fear of losing job, property, shelter etc. demotivates the employees. These are related to physiological needs.
Social Needs
Man is a social animal. As he starts living healthy, safe and secure, he seeks love, friendship, affection and belongingness from other human beings like his kith and kin. These needs motivate the employees’ behavior to a great extent at both conscious and sub-conscious levels.
Esteem Needs
Esteem-related needs belong to the highest order needs. Human beings strongly want for power, authority, achievement and high status that give him reputation and esteems in the society.
Self-actualization Needs
It is the higher order need in Maslow’s need hierarchy. It is a desire to become what one wants in life. The need to lead a meaningful and satiated life belongs to this level. A sense of self-fulfillment motivates a person to do higher achievements.
