What is Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is accurately described as a motivational theory that identifies five levels of human needs. This theory proposes that individuals are motivated to fulfill basic needs before moving on to higher-level needs. These levels include physiological needs, which encompass the basic requirements for survival, such as food and shelter; safety needs, which relate to security and protection; love and belonging, which involve social relationships and connections; esteem needs, which pertain to self-esteem and recognition; and finally, self-actualization, which represents the realization of one’s potential and personal growth.

Understanding Maslow's hierarchy is essential for managers and leaders because it helps them recognize what motivates their employees at different stages of their lives and careers. By addressing employees' needs according to this hierarchy, managers can foster a more motivated, engaged, and productive workforce.

The other options provided do not accurately depict Maslow's framework. For instance, while strategic planning is essential for organizations, it does not relate to the psychological needs outlined in Maslow's theory. Similarly, the concepts of employee turnover and organizational performance evaluation fall outside the scope of Maslow's model, which specifically focuses on human motivation rather than organizational processes or metrics.