Human Needs

Understanding Human Needs

• Human needs refer to the basic necessities and desires that must be satisfied for an individual to function effectively.
• These needs are considered universal and inherent to all humans. They may also be categorised into physiological, psychological, and self-fulfilment needs.

Categories of Human Needs

• Physiological needs include the most basic needs for human survival such as food, water, shelter, and rest.
• Psychological needs consist of the needs for security, social interaction (belonging), self-esteem, and recognition.
• Self-fulfilment needs or self-actualisation represents the desire for personal growth, development, and realisation of one’s potential.

Human Needs and Motivation

• According to the Motivation theories, understanding and fulfilling these human needs is crucial to motivating individuals.
• Each category of need can influence an individual’s motivation and behaviour, but their relative influence may differ based on the individual’s current circumstances.
• Failing to meet these needs can lead to dissatisfaction, demotivation and reduced productivity, particularly in the workplace.

Human Needs in Motivation Theories

• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory organises human needs into a five-tier model, starting from physiological needs at the bottom, followed by safety needs, social needs, esteem needs and self-actualisation at the top.
• Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory categorises human needs into “hygiene factors” which include basic and psychological needs (to avoid dissatisfaction) and “motivators” that include needs for achievement, recognition, and self-actualisation (to create satisfaction).
• McClelland’s Acquired Needs Theory focuses on achievement, power (esteem), and affiliation (social) needs, each of which can largely influence a person’s motivation.

Addressing Human Needs in the Workplace

• Employers can address the physiological needs of their employees through proper remuneration and fringe benefits like health insurance.
• Providing a safe and secure work environment, work-life balance, and maintaining healthy workplace relationships can meet the psychological needs.
• Employers can address self-fulfilment needs by providing opportunities for personal development, recognising and rewarding achievements, and allowing greater autonomy and responsibility in jobs.
• An understanding of human needs can help in determining appropriate motivation techniques and creating a positive, engaging, and productive work environment.