What level of needs in the ERG Theory corresponds with Maslow's physiological and safety needs?

In ERG Theory, developed by Clayton Alderfer, the "Existence" level directly corresponds to the physiological and safety needs outlined in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. This level encompasses the basic requirements for human survival, including physiological needs such as food, water, and shelter, along with safety needs that encompass physical safety and security.

The focus of the Existence level is on meeting the fundamental needs that are essential for a person's physical well-being and secure living conditions. This understanding is crucial because it highlights the foundational role these needs play in motivating behavior. When individuals do not have their existence needs met, they are unlikely to focus on higher-level needs related to personal growth or interpersonal relationships, which are represented in the other levels of ERG Theory.

Therefore, the correspondence between existence needs in ERG Theory and the physiological and safety needs in Maslow’s model is significant in understanding how basic human motivations operate and influence behavior in both personal and workplace contexts.