NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

How does the hierarchy of needs relate to motivation according to Abraham Maslow?

1. It shows that only physical needs motivate behavior

2. It presents a structure of needs that influence human motivation

3. It disregards social needs altogether

4. It indicates that all needs are equally important

The correct answer is: It presents a structure of needs that influence human motivation

The hierarchy of needs, as proposed by Abraham Maslow, illustrates a structured framework in which human motivation is influenced by a series of needs arranged in ascending order. This model consists of five levels: physiological needs, safety needs, love and belonging needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs. According to Maslow, individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before they can focus on higher-level needs. This structure emphasizes that as each need is met, individuals are motivated to pursue the next level of need. For example, once basic physiological needs such as food and shelter are satisfied, a person may then seek safety and security. If safety needs are achieved, the focus may shift to social relationships and belonging. In this way, Maslow's hierarchy not only provides insight into the progression of human motivation but also highlights the varying influences of different needs at different stages in a person's life. This understanding is significant in educational settings as it helps teachers recognize that students’ motivation may vary based on their current needs. For instance, a student struggling with basic physiological needs may not be able to concentrate on academic achievements, indicating that educators must address these foundational needs before higher levels of learning and personal development can occur.