Figure 1-2. Maslow's hierarchy of needs.

c. Relationship Between Levels of Needs.

(1) According to Maslow, the basic physiological needs related to survival

(food, water, and so forth.) must be met first of all.

(2) These basic physiological needs have a greater priority over those

higher on the pyramid. They must be met before the person can move on to higher

level needs. In other words, a person who is starving will not be concentrating on

building his self-esteem. A patient in severe pain will not be concerned with improving

his interpersonal relationships.

(3) Generally speaking, each lower level must be achieved before the next

higher level(s) can be focused upon.

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