The Matrix of Human Needs: Reframing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

This paper builds on the work of Abraham Masolow who said that his article was meant to be a starting point for future research into the concept of becoming human. The paper integrates concepts from neuropsychology, neurobiology, and trauma informed services to present a holistic framework within which we can discuss the processes involved in becoming interdependent human beings. Rather than seeing safety as a set of needs within the ddevelopmental framework, the paper presents the concept that safety is the framework, the matrix, within which developmental processes occur.