Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: The Nexus between Female Employment, Child Abuse, and Crime

Abstract

Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory posits that individuals possess a set of hierarchical needs, ranging from basic physiological necessities to higher-order needs such as love, esteem, and self-actualization. This study investigates the nexus between female employment, child abuse, unmet needs, and subsequent criminal behaviour through the lens of theoretical framework of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Our hypothesis suggests that child abuse disrupts the fulfilment of these needs at various developmental stages, potentially leading to adverse outcomes like juvenile delinquency and adult criminal behaviour. This study reviews previous studies on factors contributing to child abuse, Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory, including female employment, reported child abuse cases, and crime statistics. The findings are discussed within the context of Maslow's hierarchy to comprehend how the disruption of fundamental needs can impede psychological development and elevate the risk of future criminal behaviour. This study enhances the global understanding of child abuse by demonstrating the applicability of Maslow's hierarchy of needs in elucidating the nexus between early childhood experiences and later criminal behaviour. The findings emphasize the necessity for comprehensive policies that ensure the fulfilment of children's needs at all levels of Maslow's hierarchy. By addressing the root causes of child abuse and fostering healthy development, it is possible to break the cycle of violence and diminish the risk of future criminal behaviour on a global scale.