Which theory posits a hierarchy of needs from basic physiological needs to self-actualization?

Which theory posits a hierarchy of needs from basic physiological needs to self-actualization?

• A. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
• B. Drive Theory
• C. Incentive Theory
• D. Self-Determination Theory

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that human motivation follows a ladder of needs, moving from basic survival requirements up toward personal growth and fulfillment. This is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. In his view, people are motivated to satisfy physiological needs first—things like food, water, and sleep. Once those are met, safety needs become prominent, then love and belonging, followed by esteem, and finally self-actualization at the top. Self-actualization is about realizing one’s potential, creativity, and personal growth. Because the theory describes a structured progression toward a peak of growth, it uniquely fits the description of a hierarchy culminating in self-actualization. Drive Theory, by contrast, focuses on internal drives to reduce physiological discomfort and restore balance, without a hierarchical ladder toward higher levels of fulfillment. Incentive Theory emphasizes motivation driven by external rewards rather than a layered progression of needs. Self-Determination Theory highlights autonomy, competence, and relatedness as essential for intrinsic motivation, not a pyramid that ends in self-actualization.

The main idea here is that human motivation follows a ladder of needs, moving from basic survival requirements up toward personal growth and fulfillment. This is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. In his view, people are motivated to satisfy physiological needs first—things like food, water, and sleep. Once those are met, safety needs become prominent, then love and belonging, followed by esteem, and finally self-actualization at the top. Self-actualization is about realizing one’s potential, creativity, and personal growth. Because the theory describes a structured progression toward a peak of growth, it uniquely fits the description of a hierarchy culminating in self-actualization.

Drive Theory, by contrast, focuses on internal drives to reduce physiological discomfort and restore balance, without a hierarchical ladder toward higher levels of fulfillment. Incentive Theory emphasizes motivation driven by external rewards rather than a layered progression of needs. Self-Determination Theory highlights autonomy, competence, and relatedness as essential for intrinsic motivation, not a pyramid that ends in self-actualization.