Discuss the Theory of Maslows Hierarchy of Needs a Case Study
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of the case, students should be able to:
- Understand the different levels of Maslow's hierarchy of needs and how they relate to consumer behavior and learn how to identify which needs are driving consumer behavior
- Understand the theory of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and understand how it can be used to create marketing campaigns that appeal to specific needs
- Learn how to create products and services that meet the needs of consumers at different levels of the hierarchy
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The theory of Maslow's hierarchy of needs explains how the needs of human beings are structured and arranged. Theory of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs states the five categories of human needs that dictate an individual's behavior and argues that employees will try to attain their higher needs when their lower needs are satisfied. These needs are physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.
The physiological needs include the basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and clothing among others. Such needs are considered the most essential and they ought to be met before the others such as safety, luxury among others.
The next most important category of needs are the safety needs which entail the desire to be safe and secure. These needs include physical safety, emotional safety, and financial security. Once a person feels safe and secure, he or she is most likely to chase other needs and desires.
The third category is that of love and belonging, which takes account of the need for love, affection, and social interaction. Such needs are met through relationships with family, friends, and other social groups.
The fourth category of needs is that of esteem needs, which is where individuals seek the need for self-esteem and respect from others. These needs are met through personal achievements, recognition, and respect from others.
The fifth category of needs as per Maslow's hierarchy of needs is the need for self-actualization, which entails the need for personal growth, fulfillment, and self-realization. These are met through activities that challenge and stimulate the mind, such as jobs, studying, and personal development.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs suggests that people must satisfy their basic needs before they can pursue higher-level needs. Once a need is satisfied, it no longer motivates behavior, and the individual moves on to the next level of needs. The hierarchy is not a fixed sequence, and people may move up and down the hierarchy depending on their circumstances