
428. The truth about Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
About this episode
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is one of the most famous theories in psychology. We've all seen the pyramid. We've all been told that before we can become our best selves, we need to climb through five levels of human needs, from food and safety all the way to self-actualisation. But what if that's not actually what Maslow believed?
In this bonus episode, as part of our series myth-busting psychology, we're uncovering the surprising truth behind one of psychology's most iconic ideas, including:
- Why Maslow never actually drew a pyramid
- The forgotten sixth level of the hierarchy
- The Indigenous Blackfoot origins of the theory
- Whether self-actualisation is really the highest human goal
- Why the hierarchy isn't as rigid as we've been taught
- What modern psychology says about the evidence behind Maslow's ideas
Happy listening!
Watch on Netflix: HERE
Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg
Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast
Subscribe on Substack: @thepsychologyofyour20s
For business: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Get every episode summarized
Each time The Psychology of your 20s publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from The Psychology of your 20s

458. Can embracing stress actually help us?
The Psychology of your 20s

457. The psychology of 'false' memories
The Psychology of your 20s

456. Why does feeling sad sometimes feel so good?
The Psychology of your 20s

455. Why does time start flying in our 20s?
The Psychology of your 20s