Which need follows physiological needs in Maslow's hierarchy?

• A. Esteem Needs
• B. Social Needs
• C. Safety Needs
• D. Self-actualization

Answer: (C)

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, physiological needs represent the most basic requirements for human survival, such as air, water, food, shelter, and sleep. Once these fundamental needs are satisfied, individuals can then focus on the next level of needs, which is safety needs.

Safety needs encompass the desire for security and protection from physical and emotional harm. This includes personal security, financial security, health and well-being, as well as safety nets against accidents and illness. Once a person feels that their physiological needs are met and they are safe from harm, they can then move on to higher levels of social needs—such as belongingness and love, followed by esteem needs, and ultimately self-actualization.

This progression illustrates how human motivation is structured: one must address lower-level needs before they can effectively pursue higher-level needs. Thus, after physiological needs, safety needs are the next critical focus for individuals seeking overall well-being and fulfillment.