Maslow began by grouping needs into two categories, deficiency needs and growth needs. With deficiency needs, the four lower levels of the hierarchy, each lower need has to be met before moving to the next higher level. One cannot skip a level. Even once one has moved up the pyramid, they must still be aware of the lower order needs and return to them if they are no longer being satisfied. The deficiency needs are:

Physiological: sex, hunger, thirst, etc.
Safety: security, being out of danger
Belongingness and Love: association with others, to feel part of a group, to be accepted
Self-Esteem: to achieve, be competent, gain approval and recognition

Meeting these needs is not what I mean by happiness.

© Salahub 2003