Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is described as what kind of framework?

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is best described as a hierarchy of human needs because it presents a structured approach to understanding motivation based on a progression from basic to higher-level needs. According to Maslow's theory, human beings are motivated by a series of needs that are arranged in a pyramid-like structure. At the base are physiological needs (such as food, water, and shelter), followed by safety needs (security and protection), social needs (love and belonging), esteem needs (recognition and self-esteem), and ultimately self-actualization at the top, which refers to realizing one’s full potential.

This framework emphasizes that individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before they can address higher-level psychological and self-fulfillment needs. It illustrates how human motivation is driven by the fulfillment of these specific needs and underscores the importance of each level in contributing to overall well-being. Thus, identifying it as a hierarchy accurately captures the essence of Maslow's model and how it relates to human motivation and personal development.