Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

Abraham Maslow developed a hierarchy of five levels of basic needs. Each level of the needs must be met before the individual can consider the next level. The needs are:

Physiological Needs ~ food, water, air

Safety Needs ~ shelter, security

Needs of Love and Affection ~ overcome feelings of loneliness and alientation; must experience love and a sense of belonging

Needs for Esteem ~ Self-respect and respect from others

Needs for Self-Actualization ~ person's need to be and do what "they were born to do"

Applying Maslow's Needs Hierarchy to Teaching Adults:

Keeping Maslow's theory in mind, there are some important teaching and training implications. • Physiological Needs: Provide lunch breaks, rest breaks, snacks and perhaps, when possible, training stipends • Safety Needs: Provide a safe working environment, freedom from threats, and relative job security. • Social Needs: Create a feeling of acceptance, belonging, and community by reinforcing team dynamics. • Esteem Needs: Recognize achievements, assign important projects, and provide status to make learners feel appreciated and valued. • Self-Actualization: Provide challenging and meaningful work which enables innovation, creativity, and progress according to long-term goals.