Which need must be fulfilled first according to Maslow's Hierarchy?

In Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, physiological needs hold the highest priority and must be fulfilled first. These are the basic requirements for human survival and include essentials such as food, water, warmth, and rest. Before individuals can focus on higher-level needs such as safety, social connections, esteem, and ultimately self-actualization, they must first ensure that their physiological needs are met. This foundational layer is crucial because, without the satisfaction of these basic needs, an individual’s ability to pursue and achieve higher-level psychological and social needs is significantly hindered. The other categories in the hierarchy, like safety and self-esteem, build upon this groundwork, emphasizing that fulfilling physiological needs creates a stable base from which individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.