Which of the following sequences is correct regarding Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024

Explanation

Maslow's theory arranges human needs in a five-level hierarchy.
The progression starts from the most basic physiological needs required for survival.
Individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before being motivated by higher-level needs.
The correct sequence from bottom to top is: Physiological, Safety, Love and Belonging, Esteem, and Self-Actualisation.

Option B: This sequence is incorrect as it starts with higher-level needs (Esteem and Self-actualisation) before addressing the most basic physiological and safety needs.
Option C: This sequence is incorrect because it begins with Self-actualisation, which is the highest level of need, and places basic needs later in the sequence.
Option D: This sequence is incorrect because it places Love and belonging needs (a third-level need) before the foundational Physiological and Safety needs.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Maslow's hierarchy of needs helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Nurses use Maslow's hierarchy to prioritize patient care. For example, in an emergency, addressing airway, breathing, and circulation (Physiological needs) is always the first priority over psychosocial needs.
This framework helps in creating holistic care plans that address the patient as a whole, considering their physical, safety, social, and emotional needs in a structured manner.
What if? If a patient is physiologically stable but expresses extreme fear and anxiety about their diagnosis (a Safety need), the nurse's priority shifts to providing reassurance, information, and a secure environment, as the most pressing need has moved up the hierarchy.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core concept of the question, which is Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
Recall the fundamental principle of the theory: it's a hierarchy that builds from the most basic needs to the most complex.
Mentally list the five levels in order, starting with the most essential for survival.
The base is always Physiological needs (food, water, air).
The next level is Safety and Security.
Compare your recalled sequence (Physiological → Safety → Love/Belonging → Esteem → Self-Actualization) with the given options to find the match.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Psychology Applied Sreevani 5e p. 210-212

E6 Psychology Applied Sreevani 6e Sem1 pp. 211-213, 210-212

Practise the full DSSSB 14 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.