Hierarchy of needs is explained by

RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2024

Applied Psychology

Easy

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2024

Explanation

Abraham Maslow, a humanistic psychologist, introduced the 'Hierarchy of Needs' theory in his 1943 paper 'A Theory of Human Motivation'.
The theory posits that human actions are motivated by a series of needs, arranged in a hierarchy from the most basic (physiological) to the most advanced (self-actualization).
According to this model, individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before they can progress to meet higher-level growth needs.
This framework is often visualized as a pyramid and is a foundational concept in understanding human motivation.

Option A: Ivan Pavlov is famous for his work on classical conditioning, a theory of learning based on associative responses (e.g., Pavlov's dogs). This is unrelated to the hierarchy of motivational needs.
Option C: Jean Piaget's work focused on cognitive development in children. He proposed a theory of distinct stages of intellectual growth, not a hierarchy of human needs.
Option D: Carl Rogers, while also a humanistic psychologist like Maslow, is known for developing client-centered therapy. His theory emphasizes concepts like unconditional positive regard and self-concept, not a hierarchical structure of needs.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Psychological Theories: Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses use Maslow's hierarchy to prioritize patient care. For example, ensuring a patient's physiological needs (like breathing, hydration, and pain relief) are met is the first priority before addressing psychological needs (like anxiety or fear).
This framework helps in developing holistic nursing care plans that address the patient's physical, safety, social, and emotional well-being in a structured manner.
What if? A patient is admitted with acute shortness of breath. The nurse's immediate priority is to stabilize their breathing (a physiological need), even if the patient is also expressing fear and anxiety (safety and emotional needs). The higher-level needs are addressed once the life-threatening physiological need is resolved.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept in the question, which is the 'Hierarchy of needs'.
This is a foundational theory in psychology. Access your knowledge of major psychological theorists and their primary contributions.
Directly associate the 'Hierarchy of Needs' with Abraham Maslow.
Mentally eliminate the other theorists by recalling their key theories: Pavlov is linked to classical conditioning, Piaget to child cognitive development, and Rogers to client-centered therapy.
Confirm the match between the theory and the theorist to confidently select the correct option.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Psychology Applied Sreevani 5e pp. 208-210, 209-211

E6 Psychology Applied Sreevani 6e Sem1 p. 209-211