Which need in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs comes after physiological needs?

In Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, the needs are organized in a pyramid with the most basic needs at the bottom, which must be met before individuals can focus on higher-level needs. Physiological needs, which include the essentials such as food, water, warmth, and rest, are foundational. Once these physiological needs are satisfied, individuals then seek to address safety needs.

Safety needs encompass the desire for security and protection from physical and emotional harm. This can include financial security, health and well-being, and safety from accidents or illness. It is an essential step in the hierarchy, emphasizing that individuals will focus on ensuring their safety and stability before they can progress to higher levels of psychological and social needs.

Moving beyond safety, the next levels would include love and belonging, esteem, and ultimately self-actualization, which represents the realization of personal potential and self-fulfillment. Thus, understanding the progression from basic physiological needs to safety needs is crucial in recognizing how people prioritize their needs and ambitions in life.