Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

According to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, which need comes last?

1. Esteem

2. Belongingness

3. Self-actualization

4. Safety

The correct answer is: Self-actualization

In Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, self-actualization is considered the highest level of need. This level represents the fulfillment of personal potential and the desire to grow and become all that one is capable of being. It occurs only after all the lower levels of needs—physiological, safety, belongingness, and esteem—have been satisfied. Self-actualization involves the pursuit of personal growth, peak experiences, creativity, and self-awareness. The lower needs serve as a foundation; individuals typically cannot focus on self-actualization unless those foundational needs are adequately met. For instance, if someone is struggling with their basic physiological needs (like food and shelter), they are unlikely to be focusing on achieving their full potential. Therefore, self-actualization comes last in the hierarchical structure, as it signifies the culmination of achieving all prior needs.