Applying the Content Theories of Motivation Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Abraham Maslow created a hierarchy of needs illustrated on a pyramid, ranking human needs in order of preference. Maslow’s theory is a theory of motivation that is pegged on general human needs. The theory holds that every human being has a set of needs, some of which are essential to all human beings (Northouse, 2018). According to Maslow, when basic needs are fulfilled, the search for higher-order needs begins. The hierarchy of needs consists of physiological needs, safety, social or love and belonging needs, esteem, and self-actualization needs (Osemeke & Adegboyega, 2017). Maslow’s theory maintains that individuals act to meet their unfulfilled needs. Physiological needs consist of basic human needs,