Question

‘Maslow’s Need Hierarchy theory’ is based on certain assumptions. Identify the incorrect statement with respect to these assumptions:

• A. People’s behaviour is based on their needs.
• B. A satisfied need can no longer motivate a person.
• C. People’s needs are in a hierarchical order, starting from basic needs to higher level needs.
• D. A person moves to lower level of need only when a higher level need is satisfied.

Hint:

Maslow’s theory follows an upward progression — from basic to higher-level needs — once lower ones are met.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

According to Maslow’s theory, a person moves to a higher level need only after a lower level need is satisfied, not the other way around. Option (D) wrongly reverses this logic. The correct hierarchy begins with physiological needs and moves upward to safety, social, esteem, and finally self-actualization.
Final Answer: (D) A person moves to lower level of need only when a higher level need is satisfied.