Which psychological level comes first in Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, physiological needs come first because they are the most basic requirements for human survival. These needs include essentials such as food, water, warmth, and rest. According to Maslow, individuals must satisfy these fundamental needs before they can focus on higher-level needs. Once physiological needs are met, people can then address safety needs, which pertain to security and stability. Following safety, individuals pursue social needs, esteem needs, and finally, self-actualization. This foundational aspect of the hierarchy is crucial, as it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that basic biological requirements are fulfilled before one can strive for personal growth or psychological well-being.