The Human Needs Theory
The Human Needs Theory
The Human Needs Theory
The triangle is a model which simply implies that a person must first
achieve and attain his needs at the bottom of the hierarchy (psychological
basic needs) before moving their way up (self actualization). But let’s dig
deeper.
PROPONENT
Abraham Harold Maslow was
an American psychologist who was
best known for creating “Maslow's
hierarchy of needs”, a theory that
suggested that people have a
number of needs, and as these needs
are met, they are able to go on to
pursue other needs.
THEORY ASSUMPTIONS
Maslow’s Theory focuses on needs as the basis for motivation. This theory is
widely recognized and appreciated. However, some of his propositions are
questioned on his classification of needs and hierarchy of needs. But,
despite such criticism, the theory is still relevant because needs, no matter
how they are classified, are important to understand the behavior. It helps
managers to realize that the need level of employee should be identified to
provide motivation to them.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
4. Social Needs- After physiological and safety needs are fulfilled, the third
level of human needs are seen to be interpersonal and involves feelings of
belongingness.
Friendships
Intimacy
Family
5. Self-esteem- Esteem needs are ego needs or status needs. People develop
a concern with getting recognition, status, importance, and respect from
others. Most humans have a need to feel respected; this includes the need
to have self-esteem and self-respect. Esteem presents the typical human
desire to be accepted and valued by others.
6. Self-Actualization- This level of need refers to the realization of one's full
potential. Maslow describes this as the desire to accomplish everything that
one can, to become the most that one can be
The need theory promotes patients’ independence and put an emphasis on the
basic human needs to expedite patients’ health status improvement after
hospitalization. The need theory is explained more using nursing activities that are
based on 14 components of human needs. (Vera, 2014)
Physiological Components
1. Breathe normally
2. Eat and drink adequately
3. Eliminate body wastes
4. Move and maintain desirable postures
5. Sleep and rest
6. Select suitable clothes – dress and undress
7. Maintain body temperature within normal range by adjusting clothing
and modifying environment
8. Keep the body clean and well groomed and protect the integument
9. Avoid dangers in the environment and avoid injuring others
Both theories focus on the importance of human needs. There are close
similarities between the two theories. "Henderson’s 14 components can be
applied or compared to Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs" (Gonzalo,
2011).
This theory has enriched the caring profession in nursing offering novel ways of
understanding people and the world. Such is the case with perspectives
provided by Maslow, which offer a powerful conceptual framework enabling us
to understand and tailor optimal interventions to promote better care.
Hospitals can also make nurses feel supported and respected by giving them
the tools they need to communicate effectively with colleagues. In a
collaborative, secure and empowering environment, nurses can easily and
confidently provide excellent patient care. And when they are able to do that
consistently, they will feel self-actualized.
Nurses can apply Maslow's theory to their practice of patient care. Each
person's needs must be met individually in order for them to feel satisfied, cared
for and cooperative.
Identify the level of care required for the patient. Nurses working in a clinical
setting will not need to attend to the need for food and water, but do need to
protect the safety and privacy for their patients. Confirming what setting the
patient will receive care can help you to understand which patient needs must
be met first.
Evaluate patient communication to determine what needs are not being met.
Body language that includes slouching can reflect a need for respect while
crossed arms can denote a need for safety. Grumpy tones and harsh words can
also reflect a need for care and concern.
Allow yourself to form a bond with patients. Patients in extended care programs,
such as residents in nursing homes, will benefit from bonding with their
caretakers. Laugh, joke and enjoy their individual personalities. Express real
concern over their lamentations and enjoy when they share happy news of their
lives. They do so to bond with you, so embrace it.
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