Monday, December 31, 2012

Program Development III. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

In 1943 Abraham Maslow wrote a paper entitled, "A Theory of Human Motivation" which included his theory regarding the hierarchy of needs.  Essentially, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs suggests that our most basic level needs must be met first before we focus motivation upon the higher level needs.  The level of needs are seen below:

  • Physiological-  These are basic items needed for survival.  Such as breathing, food, water and sleep.
  • Safety-  These include items such personal security, health / well being and financial security.
  • Love and Belonging-  These include items such as friendship, family and intimacy. 
  • Esteem-  These include items such as self-esteem, confidence, achievement, respect of others and respect by others.
  • Self-Actualization-  This is basically the realization of one's full potential.



In essence, if I do not have food, water or shelter my focus will be on those basic needs and not my motivation to achieve my full potential.  The movie "Rudy" to some degree reminds me of this process as he had to work through several obstacles to achieve his dream of playing for Notre Dame.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs can be utilized as a method for self assessment.  It is a worthwhile process to realistically determine where you are at and what steps you need to take to enhance your motivation to achieve your personal best.  In the end, you may not be able to change your boat but you certainly can change the direction of your sails.


Coach Fowler is the Head Football Coach at Hanford West High School in Hanford, California. 

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