What does Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs suggest must be fulfilled before pursuing higher order needs?

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory that categorizes human needs into a five-tier model. According to this model, the most basic needs, which are physiological needs, must be satisfied before individuals can pursue higher-level needs. These physiological needs include essentials like food, water, warmth, and rest, which are fundamental for survival. Only after these basic needs are met can an individual seek to fulfill safety needs, social needs, esteem needs, and ultimately, self-actualization, which represents the realization of one's potential and self-fulfillment.

The theory suggests that until an individual has addressed their physiological concerns, higher-order needs will not be the primary focus or even consciously considered. This foundational aspect of Maslow's model highlights the importance of addressing basic survival needs as a prerequisite for personal growth and fulfilling more complex emotional and psychological desires.