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Updated: May 30, 2026

Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
Toward a theory of holistic needs and the brain
Nava R Silton1, Laura T Flannelly, Kevin J Flannelly
1Department of Psychology, Marymount Manhattan College, New York, NY 10021, USA. nsilton@mmm.edu
Abstract:
This article reviews Maslow's theory of motivation wherein he proposes a hierarchy of human needs. First, it describes the principal elements of Maslow's theory and discusses considerations relating to the flexibility of the hierarchy. Second, it explains the relationship among Maslow's theory of human needs, attachment theory, and evolutionary threat assessment system theory. Third, it provides an overview of the brain structures posited to be involved in attachment and evolutionary threat assessment system theory and their relation to Maslow's hierarchy. Finally, it explains how the 3 theories converge to form a theory of holistic needs.
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