While We Recognize That All Theories Have Flaws And Inconsis

While We Recognize That All Theories Have Flaws And Inconsistencies B

For this assignment, I will apply Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory to my motivation to earn a college degree, specifically focusing on the esteem level. I will analyze how my priority of needs influences my motivation as a student by examining my current esteem needs, reflecting on how the three lower-level needs—physiological, safety, and love/belonging—have been met or unmet during my childhood and currently, and discussing whether these needs have affected my pursuit of a college degree.

Current Esteem Level in Pursuit of a College Degree

Currently, my esteem needs are significantly fulfilled through academic achievements, recognition from teachers and peers, and personal growth. Earning good grades, receiving encouraging feedback, and gaining confidence in my abilities have constructed a foundation of self-esteem that motivates me to pursue higher education. Success in my coursework has reinforced my sense of accomplishment, which is vital for my esteem needs, according to Maslow.

Lower Level Needs: Childhood Experiences

Physiological Needs

During childhood, my physiological needs such as adequate nutrition, shelter, and sleep were consistently met. My parents ensured I had access to healthy food, a safe home environment, and sufficient rest. This stable foundation allowed me to focus on learning and personal development rather than basic survival concerns.

Safety Needs

My safety needs during childhood were also met through a secure household, stable income, and caring guardianship. I felt protected from physical harm, and there was a predictable routine that minimized anxiety about personal safety. This stability fostered a sense of confidence and focus on my educational pursuits.

Love and Belonging Needs

As a child, I experienced consistent love and support from my family and friends. I belonged to a nurturing community, which nurtured my self-worth and encouraged my participation in social and extracurricular activities. These experiences fulfilled my need for connection and emotional security, laying a positive groundwork for my self-esteem.

Lower Level Needs: Present Circumstances

Physiological Needs

Today, my physiological needs remain met through proper nutrition, stable housing, and sufficient sleep. These essentials continue to support my academic efforts and wellbeing, preventing physical concerns from hindering my motivation.

Safety Needs

Currently, I feel safe due to financial stability, a supportive environment, and access to healthcare. However, ongoing concerns about student debt and job security occasionally introduce stress, but overall, my safety needs are satisfied enough to focus on academic goals.

Love and Belonging Needs

In my present life, I maintain relationships with family, friends, and academic peers, which fulfill my need for connection. Participating in study groups and campus activities enhances my sense of belonging and emotional support, reinforcing my motivation to succeed academically.

Influence of Lower Level Needs on Pursuing a College Degree

My past and present fulfillment of lower-level needs have significantly influenced my ability to pursue a college degree at the esteem level. The consistent satisfaction of physiological and safety needs provided a stable foundation that allowed me to focus on academic achievement and goal-setting. The love and belonging needs met during childhood and maintained today have fostered confidence and resilience, essential for academic persistence.

Despite some current concerns about financial security, I believe that earlier fulfillment of these foundational needs has enabled me to succeed as a college student. Maslow's theory suggests that unmet needs in lower levels can hinder progress towards higher-level goals; however, my experience indicates that needs can be met indirectly or through alternative means, allowing me to reach and maintain my esteem needs and continue my educational pursuits.

References

• Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370–396.
• Kenrick, D. T., Griskevicius, V., Neuberg, S. L., & Schaller, M. (2010). Renovating the pyramid of motives: Classical motives and modern needs. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 5(3), 292–314.
• Kowalski, R. M., & Leary, M. R. (2001). The social psychology of self-esteem. Psychological Inquiry, 12(4), 297–312.
• Buss, D. M. (2019). Evolutionary psychology: The new science of the mind (6th ed.). Routledge.
• Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The "what" and "why" of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268.
• Shiffman, S., & Kanfer, F. H. (1974). Self-control in clinical psychology. Psychological Bulletin, 81(4), 648–664.
• Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. Guilford Publications.
• Higgins, E. T. (2012). Self-discrepancy theory. In P. Van Lange, A. W. Kruglanski, & E. T. Higgins (Eds.), The Handbook of Social Psychology (5th ed., pp. 479–488). Sage Publications.
• Schunk, D. H., & DiBenedetto, M. K. (2020). Motivation and achievement: Theory, research, and practice. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 61, 101838.
• Cannella, M. (2018). The importance of basic needs fulfillment for student success. Journal of College Student Development, 59(2), 187–191.