AP Psychology Practice Test 2025 - Free AP Psychology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer is that physiological needs are at the base of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Physiological needs include the most fundamental human requirements for survival, such as air, food, water, shelter, and sleep. These needs must be met before individuals can focus on higher-level needs, such as safety, belonging, esteem, and ultimately, self-actualization.

In Maslow's theory, the hierarchy is represented in the form of a pyramid, where the lower levels must be satisfied for higher-level psychological and emotional needs to be realized. Thus, physiological needs form the foundational layer, making them the priority for anyone seeking to fulfill their human potential. The pyramid emphasizes the idea that once physiological needs are fulfilled, individuals can progress to addressing their safety needs, social belonging, esteem, and eventually self-actualization, which is where they achieve their fullest potential and pursue personal growth.