Outline of the five basic needs which govern and inform human behaviour: purpose, companionship, control, security, and self-worth.
| Psycho-emotional Needs | Behavioural Strategy | Psycho-emotional Gratification | ||
| Purpose (Genesis 2:8,15) |
Desire to make an impact or contribution. Devotion of time and energy to work or some project. Achieving a goal or objective is stressed. | Contribution, accomplishment, achievement (Neh. 2:11-20) a) Unhealthy – obsession with productivity and results (eg. workaholic) b) Healthy – realistic meaningful and worthwhile goals. |
||
| Companionship (Genesis 2:18) |
Desire for friendship, intimacy or romance. Desire for belonging, acceptance, and affection. Stress is on togetherness and social interplay. | Intimate relationship, fellowship (Cant. 3:1-5) a) Unhealthy – immoral or promiscuous relations (eg. adulteress, homosexual) b) Healthy – loving marriage, warm friendship |
||
| Control (Genesis 3:12,13) |
Desire to be in charge or command of situations. Desire to have a handle on matters, and not to be overwhelmed or dominated. Desire for a sense of empowerment. Avoidance of unpredictability and uncertainty. | Empowerment, independence (Jn. 20:19-23) a) Unhealthy – authoritarian and violent behaviour (eg. physical abuser) b) Healthy – responsible, informed, decision-making |
||
| Security (Genesis 3:8-10) |
Desire for safety and protection. Desire support and company. Stress is on inner peace. Familiarity and orderliness are important. | Support, protection, company (Jn. 14:1-6; 16:25-33) a) Unhealthy – indulgent behaviour and questionable associates (eg. alcoholic, drug abuser) b) Healthy – caring community or strong friendships |
||
| Self-worth (Genesis 3:7) |
Desire to feel worthy, valuable, or acceptable. Conforms to expectations and standards. Stress is on self-affirmation. | Affirmation, approval, encouragement (Mt. 25:14-30) a) Unhealthy – exhibitive and self-centred behaviours (eg. braggart) b) Healthy – encouraging community or positive family and friends |