Individual Closing Case 2
1. According to Maslow’s need hierarchy theory, individuals are motivated to satisfy their
basic needs first then move on to their next level of needs. The most essential needs are
physiological needs, such as food, water, or shelter. Next are security and safety needs,
then social needs, which are the wants to be loved and accepted. Finally, esteem needs and
self-actualization needs are last. Pamela Jones’ underlying needs that motivated her had to
do with her esteem and self-actualization needs. Esteem needs include self-respect and the
want to be respected by others. Self-actualization needs include personal fulfillment,
achievements or accomplishments, and the want to develop personal unique talents.
Pamela Jones was eager to learn banking after graduation. She had the determination to
learn banking and enrolled in a bank management training program right out of college.
She was enthusiastic and ready to work above average and stay long hours to move up the
corporate ladder. Unfortunately, she was not getting far and was trapped in a job that had
many burdens. When she learned she was being transferred 100 miles east of where she
and her husband lived, she evaluated her needs and prioritized accordingly. She knew she
would not move up the ladder if she denied the job transfer, but her family was more
important. When the time came, she quit her job because she realized her job’s needs were
at the esteem and self-actualization level while her family was at the security and social
needs level. She knew her safety and social needs were more important and was willing to
