Indian Institute of Technology Madras
BS Degree Programme · Examination & Study Paper
BSGN3001 · Strategies for Professional Growth
Motivation & Maslow's hierarchy
Examination Instructions & Guidelines
- Solve on notebook/paper first before checking solutions.
- MCQ: Exactly 1 option is correct. Negative marking applies.
- Scientific calculator allowed for all calculations.
- Official answer key is sealed at the end of this sheet.
End Term · 31 Aug 2025 (FN)End Term
- Q1MCQ1 Mark·Choose one option
According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which of the following statements is true?
- AOnce higher-level needs are fulfilled, lower-level needs stop influencing behavior.
- BNeeds operate in a strict sequence, and individuals cannot pursue higher needs without fully satisfying lower ones.
- CIn practice, multiple needs may influence behavior simultaneously, though lower needs generally take priority.
- DOnly individuals in high-level roles, like leaders or entrepreneurs, experience all levels of needs.
End Term · 31 Aug 2025 (AN)End Term
- Q2MCQ1 Mark·Choose one option
According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which of the following statements is true?
- AOnce higher-level needs are fulfilled, lower-level needs stop influencing behavior.
- BNeeds operate in a strict sequence, and individuals cannot pursue higher needs without fully satisfying lower ones.
- CIn practice, multiple needs may influence behavior simultaneously, though lower needs generally take priority.
- DSelf-actualization needs are only relevant for leaders and entrepreneurs.
Read the passage below, then answer Q3–Q6

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a motivational theory that explains how human behavior is driven by different levels of needs. Recognizing them is important for understanding what drives human motivation and for effectively supporting personal growth and development. Identify the most appropriate level or need in the given scenarios.
Based on the above data, answer the given subquestions.
Q3MCQ1 Mark·Choose one optionAbhishek Kumar, a new employee in a consulting firm, is anxious because his job contract is only for six months. He spends most of her time worrying about whether he will be retained. Which level of Maslow’s hierarchy is most relevant here?
- ASelf-Esteem Needs
- BSafety Needs
- CBelongingness Needs
- DSelf-Actualization
- Q4MCQ1 Mark·Choose one option
Chirag recently got promoted to team leader. He enjoys recognition from peers and appreciates being publicly acknowledged for his contributions. Which level of Maslow’s hierarchy does this represent?
- ASelf-Actualization
- BSafety Needs
- CSelf-Esteem Needs
- DBelongingness Needs
- Q5MCQ1 Mark·Choose one option
Rajyalakshmi, a senior designer, already has financial stability and industry recognition. She now wants to start her own venture to create innovative solutions for rural communities. Which need does Rajyalakshmi’s aspiration reflect?
- ASelf-Actualization
- BSelf-Esteem Needs
- CBelongingness Needs
- DSafety Needs
- Q6MCQ1 Mark·Choose one option
Narendrean, a software engineer, after getting a stable job and good salary, now seeks to be part of cross-functional project teams to feel connected with colleagues. Which need is dominant in this situation?
- APhysiological Needs
- BBelongingness Needs
- CSafety Needs
- DEsteem Needs
End Term · 13 Apr 2025 (AN)End Term
Read the passage below, then answer Q7–Q9
[Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs] Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs explains how motivation progresses from basic survival to self-actualization. While lacking strong empirical evidence, it remains useful for identifying barriers to career growth and shaping workplace policies that support employees at different stages, driving higher performance and productivity.
Read the given workplace scenarios and identify which level of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs best apply to each situation.
Based on the above data, answer the given subquestions.
Q7MCQ1 Mark·Choose one optionMurthy recently moved to a new city to start his first job. While he was eager to begin his career, the excitement quickly gave way to long work hours. With a modest salary and rising living costs, he found himself constantly worried about paying rent, managing bills, and affording basic meals. The financial pressure began to take a toll on his focus and productivity at work. Which level of Maslow’s hierarchy is Murthy striving for?
- ASocial Needs
- BPhysiological Needs
- CEsteem Needs
- DSelf-actualization
- Q8MCQ1 Mark·Choose one option
Salma has everything but still wants to become a motivational speaker and inspire change. Which need is she pursuing?
- ASelf-actualization
- BEsteem
- CSocial
- DSafety
- Q9MCQ1 Mark·Choose one option
Anand feels isolated at work and unappreciated by his team. Which needs are unfulfilled?
- ASocial
- BSelf-actualization
- CPhysiological
- DEsteem