In Maslow's theory, which level of needs includes basic requirements such as air, water, and food?

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the level that encompasses basic requirements such as air, water, and food is categorized as psychological needs. This foundational level represents the essential elements that are critical for human survival and are the first needs individuals seek to satisfy.

When these psychological needs are unmet, individuals are primarily motivated to fulfill them before addressing higher-level needs, such as security, social interaction, esteem, or self-actualization. This is a fundamental principle of Maslow's theory, which suggests that only after fulfilling these basic physiological needs can a person begin to focus on higher-level desires and aspirations.

The other options refer to different levels in Maslow's hierarchy; security needs focus on safety and stability, social needs pertain to relationships and belonging, and self-actualization needs involve personal growth and fulfillment. Each of these occupies a higher tier in the hierarchy, indicating that they can only be pursued after the more basic physiological needs have been met.