Which needs in Maslow’s hierarchy provide protection from physical an…

Which needs in Maslow’s hierarchy provide protection from physical and emotional harm?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 4

The correct answer is Option (4) → Safety/Security needs

Option (1) Basic physiological needs — Incorrect. Basic physiological needs are the primary needs, such as hunger, thirst, shelter and sleep. Basic salary helps to meet them.

Option (2) Affiliation/Belonging needs — Incorrect. Affiliation/Belonging needs are about affection, belongingness, acceptance and friendship.

Option (3) Esteem needs — Incorrect. Esteem needs cover self-respect, autonomy, status, recognition and attention.

Option (4) Safety/Security needs — Correct. Safety/Security needs give security and protection from physical and emotional harm. Job security, stability of income and pension plans are examples.

NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Maslow’s Need Hierarchy Theory of Motivation: … His theory was based on human needs. He felt that within every human being, there exists a hierarchy of five needs. These are:
(i) Basic Physiological Needs: These needs are most basic in the hierarchy and corresponds to primary needs. Hunger, thirst, shelter, sleep and sex are some examples of these needs. In the organisational context, basic salary helps to satisfy these needs.
(ii) Safety/Security Needs: These needs provide security and protection from physical and emotional harm. Examples: job security, stability of income, Pension plans etc.,
(iii) Affiliation/Belonging Needs: These needs refer to affection, sense of belongingness, acceptance and friendship.
(iv) Esteem Needs: These include factors such as self-respect, autonomy status, recognition and attention.”