Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

This educational PDF, created by Simply Psychology, offers an in-depth exploration of Abraham Maslow’s influential theory of human motivation, known as the Hierarchy of Needs.

The document breaks down Maslow's original five-tier model: physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization - while also discussing later additions, such as cognitive, aesthetic, and transcendence needs.

Through clear explanations, visual diagrams (e.g., pyramid models on pages 1, 3, 5, and 9), and real-world applications across education, healthcare, and workplace settings, this resource is ideal for students, educators, and professionals in psychology and related fields.

The article also critically evaluates Maslow’s theory in light of cultural variation, empirical challenges, and alternative models such as ERG theory, Herzberg’s two-factor theory, and Self-Determination Theory.

References to contemporary research (e.g., Tay & Diener, 2011; McConnell & Metz, 2024) provide updated insights into how Maslow’s framework remains relevant—and debated—today.

• Publisher: Simply Psychology
• Publication Year: 2007
• URL: https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html