The Hierarchy
Maslow’s hierarchy is often shown using this shape.
What is a pyramid?
Maslow explained that the need for this resource overrides hunger when it’s threatened.
What is air?
A hungry student will struggle to do this in class.
What is focus or learn?
This is the first level in Maslow’s hierarchy.
What are physiological needs?
Maslow described these needs as protection, stability, and security.
What are safety needs?
Maslow believed students with unmet D-needs cannot reach this final level.
What is self-actualization?
These four levels—physiological, safety, belonging, and esteem—are called this.
What are deficiency needs (D-needs)?
Humans are social beings. These needs drive the desire for connection.
What are belonging needs?
Students in dangerous or unstable environments often operate in this stress response mode.
What is fight or flight?
Unlike D-needs, these needs grow stronger as they are fulfilled.
What are B-needs (growth needs)?
These needs involve confidence, self-respect, and being valued.
What are esteem needs?
Students with unmet esteem needs may engage in this kind of behavior.
What is risky or self-destructive behavior?
Maslow said higher needs emerge only after lower needs are met. He called this process:
What is Homeostasis?
The final level where individuals strive to “become what they are to become.”
What is self-actualization?
Students with unmet needs operate from this part of the brain:
What is the Brain Stem?