Maslow Hierarchy of Needs and Behavior Change

    Abraham Maslow is a well know Psychologist, many nursing schools base their teachings on Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Which in general terms appear to be simplistically laid out. But when looking deeper into Maslow's work, it is not simplistic at all. Maslow outlined principles of self-actualization theory, he emphasizes encouraging our inner nature, and when we deny or suppress expressions of our inner nature is when one experiences illness.

    During my recent research, there are so many aspects to his work.  The depth and realizations of who we are, illness, health, wholism, psychology, spiritual issues and behavior change are a few. He speaks of "deficiency needs" and if they are not met we do not function well. This carry's into all levels within the hierarchy. Obviously for example, if someone is starving, they must meet that deficiency need to maintain health, otherwise illness or death will result. Now looking at it more complex, apply defiency needs to all levels, safety, belonging and self-esteem needs. Maslow states we still must meet these deficiency needs to maintain health and avoid illness - for example, psychopathology may occur if any of those are deficiency needs are not met. Very insightful.
   
    More interesting I am intrigues with behavior change and the drive behind successful change. There are so many contributing factors when dealing with change that we will address in another blog, but Maslow hits this one on the head as well. Looking at it on such a deep innate level, making it easy to understand and difficult to deal with. He goes on to say that INSIDE US ARE TWO SET OF FORCES:

1. ONE THAT CLINGS TO SAFETY AND DEFENSIVENESS OUT OF FEAR
2. ONE THAT URGES US TOWRD WHOLENESS AND FULL EXPRESSION OF OR TRUE SELVES.

    Again looking at expressing our true nature, if we deny that and cling to safety and defensiveness out of fear - illness will result. Look at your own lives for a second and think of one example or behavior that you can identify you function thru fear and defensiveness, because it may be all you know, it is the safe thing to do you think. But then look and see if there is success in that aspect or situation in your life.

    So let the fear and clinging to safety go and see how you can feel your own true expression of your inner self. I am not saying this is easy, It is the opposite of easy, but what it takes to make positive changes in your life!!!  Good luck

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Hierarchy of Needs

Self-Actualization
Esteem Needs
Belonging Needs
Safety Needs
Physiology Needs

Please visit www.chandraklaiber.com for more information.

Arlowski, M. (2009). Wellness Coaching for a Lasting Lifestyle Change. Duluth, Minnesota: 

          Whole Person Associates.