According to Maslow, what is a key component that motivates children's behavior?

Maslow's theory highlights that human behavior is primarily motivated by the need to fulfill basic human needs. This framework is often depicted as a hierarchy, where individuals must meet lower-level needs (such as physiological and safety needs) before they can focus on higher-level needs (like social belonging and self-actualization). In the context of children's behavior, this means that children will often be motivated to engage in activities and behaviors as a means of satisfying their need for safety, love, belonging, and ultimately, esteem and achievement. Therefore, meeting human needs is the foundation upon which children build their actions and motivations.

The other options, while they can influence children's behavior, are more specific aspects or outcomes related to motivation rather than the overarching framework that Maslow outlined. For instance, desire for achievement may arise only after some basic needs are met. Peer relationships and parental guidance, although significant, typically serve as support or facilitation for children as they pursue their needs rather than being the fundamental motivator defined by Maslow.