A Quality-of-life Theory Derived from Maslow’s Developmental Perspective
Author(s)
Sirgy, M. J.
Abstract
A quality-of-life (QOL) theory developed from Abraham Maslow’s human developmental perspective is presented. Developed societies involve members who are mostly preoccupied in satisfying higher-order needs (social, esteem, and self actualization needs), it is argued, whereas less-developed societies involve members who are mostly preoccupied in satisfying lower-order needs (biological and safety related needs). QOL is defined in terms of the hierarchical need satisfaction level of most of the members of a given society. The higher the need satisfaction of the majority in a given society the greater the QOL of that society. Institutions are designed to serve human needs in a society, and therefore a society’s QOL. Societal institutions that serve human needs include productive, maintenance, managerial/political, and adaptive institutions. Each of these types of societal institutions involve a hierarchical dimension. It is argued that progressive increases in QOL are accompanied with hierarchical changes of these societal institutions.
