What is the correct order of Maslow's hierarchy from lowest to highest?

• A. Physiological; safety; belonging/love; self-esteem; self-actualization
• B. Self-actualization; esteem; belonging; safety; physiological
• C. Physiological; cognitive; social; safety; esteem
• D. Safety; physiological; belonging; cognitive; self-actualization

Answer: (A)

Maslow's hierarchy climbs from basic survival needs to growth needs. The base is physiological needs such as food, water, warmth, and rest. Once those are met, safety needs—security, safety, and stability—become prominent. After that, belonging and love needs emerge, including relationships and social connections. Next come esteem needs, encompassing self-respect and recognition from others. At the top is self-actualization, reaching one’s full potential. So the correct order from lowest to highest is physiological, safety, belonging/love, self-esteem, self-actualization. Other sequences mix in items not aligned with the classic five-stage model or place levels out of order, such as prioritizing safety before physiological or introducing cognitive as a separate level.