Question

Psychologist Abraham Maslow introduced the concept of a hierarchy of needs, which suggests that people are motivated to fulfill basic needs before moving on to other, more advanced needs. Consider how this may influence our development, motivation, and accomplishments. Choose which level of needs would best explain the following scenario.

Mario has not been doing well in his third grade classroom. His teacher noticed that he wasn't focusing in class and mistakenly thought he was being lazy. In fact, the truth was that Mario's family couldn't afford enough food to feed their family and therefore, he regularly goes to school without any breakfast. Which level of need would best describe what is going on with Mario?
a) Esteem needs
b) Safety needs
c) Belongingness and love needs
d) Physiological needs

Answer 1

Mario's situation is best explained by d) Physiological needs according to Maslow's hierarchy. His lack of focus and academic struggles can be attributed to the unmet basic need for food, which falls under the physiological level of the hierarchy. (option d)

Step-by-step explanation:

Maslow's hierarchy of needs proposes that individuals are driven to satisfy fundamental needs before progressing to higher-order needs. The physiological needs, such as food, water, and shelter, form the foundational level. In Mario's case, the lack of adequate food for breakfast directly impacts his physiological well-being. The struggle to meet this basic need can significantly influence his ability to focus and engage in classroom activities. Without addressing the physiological need for nourishment, other aspects of personal and academic development may be hindered.

Understanding Mario's situation through the lens of Maslow's hierarchy emphasizes the critical importance of meeting basic physiological needs for optimal functioning. In this context, interventions aimed at providing support for Mario's nutritional needs can lay the groundwork for improved focus and academic performance. This perspective also underscores the interconnectedness of various needs in Maslow's hierarchy, highlighting the cascading impact of unmet basic needs on higher-order aspects of personal and academic development.

By recognizing the influence of physiological needs on behavior and academic performance, educators and support systems can implement targeted interventions to address the immediate needs of students like Mario. Such interventions contribute not only to the well-being of the individual but also create an environment conducive to holistic development, aligning with Maslow's framework of hierarchical needs.(option d)