Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

Delbert Boone discusses Dr. Abraham Maslow's theory that human beings are motivated by unsatisfied needs and that certain lower, basic needs must be satisfied before higher needs can be met. He ties Maslow's theory to the pre-occupation of drug use and the negative effects which result from alcohol/drug addiction. Boone says that since addiction is a progressive illness, it first destroy's a person's ability to achieve self-actualization (fulfill dreams, etc.) and eventually destroy's the person's ability to meet their other more basic needs including those relating to physiology, safety, love and self-esteem. He discusses how the process of recovery can help the alcoholic or addict begin to meet their basic needs, gain self-esteem, healthy relationships, and to live a safe and satisfying life.