Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certification Practice Test

What level of Maslow's hierarchy comes after 'social needs'?

1. Physiological needs

2. Esteem needs

3. Self-actualization needs

4. Safety needs

The correct answer is: Esteem needs

The correct answer is esteem needs. In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which is often depicted as a pyramid, social needs (often called belongingness and love needs) are positioned in the middle tier. Once these social needs are fulfilled, individuals naturally progress to the higher level of esteem needs. Esteem needs encompass the desire for respect, self-esteem, status, recognition, and appreciation from others. It is integral to a person's sense of self-worth and confidence. When social needs are met—through friendships, family relationships, and community—people often seek to build their self-esteem and gain recognition for their achievements, making esteem needs a logical progression. In contrast, physiological needs, safety needs, and self-actualization needs represent different levels within the hierarchy. Physiological needs, such as food and water, are the most basic. Safety needs relate to security and protection from harm, while self-actualization needs signify achieving one’s full potential and personal growth. Therefore, the transition from social to esteem needs follows the structure of Maslow's framework, supporting why esteem needs is the next level after social needs.