A new prep cook hired through a shelter program is likely operating at which level of Maslow's hierarchy?

A new prep cook hired through a shelter program is likely operating at which level of Maslow's hierarchy?

• A. Social
• B. Esteem
• C. Physiological and Safety
• D. Self-Actualization

Answer: (C)

Maslow’s hierarchy shows people are motivated first by basic survival and security needs. A new prep cook hired through a shelter program is most likely focused on basic, concrete needs: having food or meals, stable shelter, and safety on the job (security, a safe work environment). These are the bottom two levels—physiological needs and safety needs. Until those are reasonably met, higher motivators like belonging, esteem, or self-actualization aren’t the primary drivers. So the best fit is the level that combines physiological and safety needs, reflecting the immediate, practical concerns of someone starting in this situation.

Maslow’s hierarchy shows people are motivated first by basic survival and security needs. A new prep cook hired through a shelter program is most likely focused on basic, concrete needs: having food or meals, stable shelter, and safety on the job (security, a safe work environment). These are the bottom two levels—physiological needs and safety needs. Until those are reasonably met, higher motivators like belonging, esteem, or self-actualization aren’t the primary drivers. So the best fit is the level that combines physiological and safety needs, reflecting the immediate, practical concerns of someone starting in this situation.