Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs posits that what must be met first?

• A. Higher psychological needs
• B. Basic needs before higher needs
• C. Social needs before physiological needs
• D. Self-actualization before safety

Answer: (B)

Maslow’s theory centers on a progression of needs that drive behavior from the bottom up. The idea is that basic, essential needs—like food and safety—have to be met before a person can focus on higher-level needs such as belonging, esteem, and ultimately self-actualization. When basic needs are unmet, they dominate motivation and behavior because survival and security take precedence. Once those foundations are satisfied, attention shifts to social connections, then to esteem, and finally to realizing one’s potential.

So the statement that basic needs come before higher needs is the best fit because it captures this foundational order. The other options describe incorrect sequences—wanting higher-level or personal growth needs before physiological and safety needs, or prioritizing self-actualization before safety.