Which psychological need in Maslow's hierarchy represents the drive to feel competent?

• A. Love & Belonging Needs
• B. Self Esteem Needs
• C. Self-Actualization Needs
• D. Self-Transcendance Needs

Answer: (B)

In Maslow’s hierarchy, the drive to feel competent falls under esteem needs. This level covers the desire for mastery, achievement, confidence, independence, and the respect or recognition of others. When people feel capable and earned approval, they’re motivated by a sense of effectiveness and worth.

This is different from love and belonging, which centers on close relationships and social acceptance; self-actualization, which focuses on realizing personal potential and growth; and self-transcendence, which involves going beyond the self to larger purposes. For example, a student who studies hard to master material and gain good feedback from teachers or peers is satisfying esteem needs by proving to themselves and others that they are capable.