Physiological Needs

Definition

These are the basic needs that are vital to survival, such as food, water, sleep, and warmth.

Analogy

Think of physiological needs like the foundation of a house. Without a strong base (food, water, etc.), the rest of the house (our other needs) can't be built or sustained.

Related terms

Homeostasis: The body's need to reach and maintain a certain state of equilibrium. This is closely tied to physiological needs because our bodies strive for balance in order to survive.

Drive-Reduction Theory: A psychological theory suggesting that humans are motivated by imbalances in homeostasis (physiological needs), which drive us to take action to reduce this imbalance and restore equilibrium.

Hierarchy of Needs: A model proposed by Abraham Maslow that outlines five tiers of human needs. Physiological needs form the base or first tier in this hierarchy.