Maslow's Need Hierarchy The crux of Maslow's theory is that needs are arranged in a hierarchy.4 The lowest- level needs are the physiological needs, and the highest-level needs are the self- actualization needs. These needs are defined to mean the following 1. Physiological. The need for food, drink, shelter, and relief from pain 2. Safety and security. The need for freedom from threat, that is, security from threat- ening events or surroundings 3. Belongingness, social, and love. The need for friendship, affiliation, interaction, and love. 4. Esteem. The need for self-esteem and for esteem from others. 5. Self-actualization. The need to fulfill oneself by making maximum use of abilities skills, and potential Exhibit 5.4 shows the hierarchical nature of Maslow's theory For each of the five need levels, the exhibit provides examples of work-related factors that might be associ ated with need satisfaction.