Question

5-What are some of the key problems with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

course name :consumer behavior

Answer 1

Maslow need theory is one of the famous theory of motivation but it also have some problems.The major problem with Maslow's hierarchy-of-needs theory is that it cannot be verified empirically, because there is no proper method to measure accurately how satisfied one level of need must be before the next higher need becomes operative.

Researchers have proved that there is lack of hierarchical structure of needs as suggested by Maslow, though every individual has some ordering for his need satisfaction.

Some people may be deprived of their lower level needs but may still strive for self actualisation needs. The example of MAHATMA GANDHI is one of the most important. There are always some people to whom, the need for self-esteem is more prominent than social needs.

The theory assumes that all people experience these needs in the same order, failing to recognize cultural and individual differences. In collectivist societies, for example, social needs may be considered more important than physiological needs.

Maslow restricted the number of self-actualized people in his theory. At one time, he wrote that less than two percent of the total population is made of self-actualizers.Maslow restricted the number of self-actualized people in his theory. At one time, he wrote that less than two percent of the total population is made of self-actualizers.

Another problem is that there is a lack of direct cause and effect relationship between need and behaviour. One particular need may cause different type of behaviour in different persons. On the other hand, as a particular individual behaviour may be due to the result of different needs. Thus, need hierarchy is not as simple as it appears to be.