Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and You

This article revolves around Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

I’m not an expert on humanistic psychology, however I’ve been quite interested in Maslow’s works.

The first four layers of his original five stage model (see image) are what Maslow calls deficiency needs, this is where the individual would be content when these needs are filled, but if not (or deficient) they would progress to negative emotions (anxiousness, stress etc). The fifth layer is that of Self-actualisation, this is where the individual would break free and begin to take control of their life instead of just experiencing it, Generation Y is a great example of what is becoming a self-actualising society.

What confused me with the first four layers is that if the individual is constantly aware that his needs are being fulfilled – by either himself or another party – then he/she would have gratitude towards such fulfilment, therefore, instead of feeling neutral towards the needs he or she would feel positive emotions. Perhaps this is the self-actualised person in action.

Also according to his needs each of the first four layers has to be satisfied before the fifth psychological need can begin to be fulfilled. With the loss of fear could the individual concentrate on the fifth need? As far as I am aware all of the first four needs are based on fear, the fear of loss (deficiency). If we were by will able to shed this fear of loss we should be able to self-actualise. However upon doing that, all other need layers would easily fall into place.