Maslow's hierarchy of needs is best described as what type of model?

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is characterized as a pyramid of human needs because it visually represents the idea that human motivation is organized in levels, with basic physiological needs at the base and more complex psychological needs at the top. This hierarchical structure reflects how individuals must fulfill lower-level needs—such as food, safety, and belonging—before being able to focus on higher-level needs like esteem and self-actualization. The pyramid model emphasizes the foundational nature of these needs and how they build upon one another, indicating that without satisfying the lower layers, individuals may struggle to achieve fulfillment in the higher layers. This representation is essential in understanding human motivation and behavior, as it provides a clear framework for assessing individual needs and the progression toward personal growth and psychological well-being.