Maslow’s hierarchy of needs /mas″lōz/ [Abraham H. Maslow, American psychiatrist, 1908–1970; Gk, hierarches, position of authority; AS, nied, obligation] , (in psychology) a hierarchic categorization of the basic needs of humans. The most basic needs on the scale are the physiological or biological needs, such as the need for air, food, or water. Of second priority are the safety needs, including protection and freedom from fear and anxiety. The subsequent order of needs in the hierarchic progression are the need to belong, to love, and to be loved; the need for self-esteem; and ultimately the need for self-actualization. To progress from one need to another, the more basic need must first be satisfied.
