What are the stages of Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

• A. self-actualization, esteem, love/belonging, safety needs , physiological needs
• B. physiological needs, safety needs, love/belonging, esteem, self-actualization
• C. self-actualization, safety needs, esteem, physiological needs, love/belonging
• D. physiological needs, love/belonging, safety needs, esteem, self-actualization

Answer: (A)

Maslow's hierarchy is a bottom-to-top ladder of needs. At the base are physiological needs like food, water, and shelter, which must be satisfied first. Once those are met, safety needs such as security and stability become the focus. After safety comes love/belonging, the social needs for affection and connection. When those are satisfied, esteem needs—achievement, respect, and self-worth—become important. At the top sits self-actualization, the drive to realize personal potential and growth. Some versions add self-transcendence, but the classic model ends with self-actualization.

Because of that progression, the correct representation is the sequence that starts with physiological needs and ends with self-actualization. Any ordering that places higher needs before lower ones (for example, starting with self-actualization) contradicts the idea that lower-level needs must be satisfied before higher ones become motivating.