Maslow contributed to psychology by developing which theory and with which school is he associated?

• A. Operant conditioning theory and Behaviorist approach
• B. Hierarchy of needs and Humanistic psychology
• C. Cognitive development stages and Cognitive psychology
• D. Psychoanalytic stages and Psychodynamic theory

Answer: (B)

Maslow's contribution centers on the hierarchy of needs, a model of human motivation that moves from basic survival needs up to self-actualization. This framework is a cornerstone of humanistic psychology, which stresses human potential, personal growth, and the importance of subjective experience. Humanistic psychology emerged as a response to behaviorism and psychoanalysis, offering a more optimistic view of human nature and focus on growth rather than just pathology. The hierarchy begins with physiological needs, then safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization, with later additions such as cognitive and transcendence needs. Other theories on the table align with operant conditioning and behaviorism, Piagetian cognitive development and cognitive psychology, or Freud's psychodynamic theory, none of which are Maslow's contribution.