DECA Marketing Cluster Practice Exam

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs suggests that which need must be fulfilled before others?

1. Esteem

2. Survival

3. Belonging

4. Self-actualization

The correct answer is: Survival

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory that prioritizes human needs in a specific order, often depicted as a pyramid. At the base of this hierarchy are physiological or survival needs, which include essentials such as air, water, food, shelter, sleep, and clothing. According to Maslow, these survival needs must be satisfied before individuals can focus on higher-level needs such as belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. The rationale for this prioritization is straightforward: if a person's basic survival needs are not met, their attention and efforts will be geared towards addressing those fundamental requirements before they can pursue relationships, self-esteem, or personal growth. This framework implies that without a solid foundation of survival, it is difficult to engage with or find fulfillment in the more advanced aspects of human motivation and well-being. Thus, the correct answer indicates the essential starting point in the journey toward achieving higher personal and social fulfillment.