Basic human needs

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Basic Human Needs

Basic human needs are the essential elements required for human survival and well-being. These needs are fundamental to human life and are often categorized into physiological, safety, social, esteem, and self-actualization needs, as described by Abraham Maslow in his Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Understanding these needs is crucial for fields such as medicine, psychology, and sociology.

Physiological Needs[edit | edit source]

Physiological needs are the basic requirements for human survival. They include:

  • Air: Humans need a constant supply of oxygen to survive. The respiratory system facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
  • Water: Water is essential for maintaining bodily functions, including digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation.
  • Food: Nutrients from food provide energy and are necessary for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues.
  • Shelter: Protection from environmental elements such as extreme temperatures and weather conditions is necessary for survival.
  • Sleep: Adequate rest is crucial for physical and mental health, allowing the body to repair and rejuvenate.

Safety Needs[edit | edit source]

Once physiological needs are met, safety needs become a priority. These include:

Social Needs[edit | edit source]

Social needs involve the desire for interpersonal relationships and community. These include:

  • Friendship: Companionship and social interaction are important for emotional well-being.
  • Family: Family provides support, love, and a sense of belonging.
  • Intimacy: Close relationships and emotional connections with others.
  • Community: Being part of a group or society that shares common interests and values.

Esteem Needs[edit | edit source]

Esteem needs are related to the desire for respect and recognition. These include:

  • Self-Esteem: Confidence in one's abilities and self-worth.
  • Recognition: Acknowledgment and appreciation from others.
  • Achievement: Accomplishing goals and gaining a sense of competence.

Self-Actualization[edit | edit source]

Self-actualization is the realization of one's potential and the pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment. It involves:

  • Creativity: Engaging in creative activities and expressing oneself.
  • Problem Solving: The ability to find solutions to challenges and obstacles.
  • Personal Growth: Continuous development and self-improvement.
  • Purpose: Finding meaning and purpose in life.

Also see[edit | edit source]

Template:Human needs

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD