On reconsidering maslow: An examination of the deprivation/domination proposition

Several earlier studies failed to support propositions derived from Maslow′s motivation theory, such as the proposal that needs become stronger with deprivation (Deprivation/Domination Proposition). We argue that significance of these negative findings is limited by serious methodological problems, and we present data to document and help overcome some of them. Across four data sets, between-goal correlations and partial correlations tended to support Maslow′s proposition with “intention” ratings but not with the traditionally-used “importance” ratings. Smaller differences in scale wording also affected outcomes. Negative reactions to nonattainment were relatively larger for goals related to lower needs in Maslow′s hierarchy; positive reactions to attainment were larger at higher levels. Results do not support earlier suggestions that the proposition has been invalidated empirically.