Correct Answer: Physiological needs

Solution : The correct answer is (d) Physiological needs.

Maslow's Need Hierarchy Theory suggests that individuals have a set of hierarchical needs that motivate their behavior. The hierarchy consists of five levels, arranged from the most basic to the highest:

1. Physiological needs: These are the fundamental biological needs required for survival, such as food, water, shelter, sleep, and other bodily necessities. These needs must be satisfied first because they are essential for sustaining life.

2. Safety needs: Once physiological needs are met, individuals seek safety and security. This includes personal security, financial security, health and well-being, and protection from physical harm or danger.

3. Social needs (also known as belongingness and love needs): After safety needs are fulfilled, individuals seek social interaction, love, and a sense of belonging. This includes forming relationships, friendships, and being part of a community or social group.

4. Esteem needs: Once social needs are satisfied, individuals strive for self-esteem and recognition from others. Esteem needs involve gaining respect, recognition, status, and a sense of accomplishment.

5. Self-actualization: At the highest level of the hierarchy, individuals pursue self-actualization, which refers to the realization of one's full potential, personal growth, and fulfillment. This involves seeking personal development, creativity, pursuing meaningful goals, and achieving self-fulfillment.

According to Maslow's theory, individuals generally prioritize and strive to fulfill the lower-level needs before moving on to the higher-level needs. Thus, physiological needs are considered the most basic and fundamental needs that must be satisfied before progressing to the subsequent levels in the hierarchy.