Mentor Training
Hierarchy of Needs
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs pyramid can help us understand the needs of “at risk” children. If a child is not getting the very basic needs in the chart then it could explain why the child is acting the way they do. It is our desire, not to necessarily meet all these needs, but instead, to understand the child’s condition and help where we can.
The pyramid starts with the largest section (at the bottom) because each section must be achieved to effectively build upon it and move up to the next section of the pyramid.
Physiological Needs
Basic needs in life must be met first; food, water, sleep, warmth, shelter, etc. before moving up to the next section.
Safety
Next, Safety from injury and feeling protected must be achieved. This level also includes health, wellness, and financial security.
Love & Belonging
Once a person feels safe and secure, they need to feel love and a sense of belonging and friendship.
Esteem
At this level, a person feels a sense of accomplishment. Therefore, they feel valued by others and themselves. They also can start to see a bigger picture in which they are contributing to a higher goal.
Self-Actualization
At this point, the person realizes their full potential. This allows them to do the best they can. This also allows the person to feel empowered and to care about their personal growth. All of this causes them to not care as much about others’ opinions regarding themselves.