According to Maslow's hierarchy, what is likely to happen if lower-order needs are unmet?

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the theory posits that human motivation is based on a progression of needs, often displayed in a pyramid structure. At the base are the lower-order needs, which include physiological and safety needs. When these fundamental needs aren't met, the individual's focus tends to remain on satisfying them before they can attend to higher-order needs like social connections, esteem, or self-actualization.

When lower-order needs are unmet, individuals may not have the mental or emotional bandwidth to seek out or prioritize higher-order needs. This lack of fulfillment creates a situation where concerns for physical safety, basic health, and emotional stability overshadow aspirations for social connections or self-growth. The inability to focus on these loftier aspirations underscores the importance of addressing fundamental human needs first. Hence, the correct understanding is that if lower-order needs are not addressed, it leads to the neglect of higher-order pursuits, aligning with the statement regarding a lack of interest in these elevated levels of need.