I've been thinking a lot about this subject because, as someone selling my books, it's hard not to. There's science behind why people buy one book or product over another. While fascinating, it is also frustrating. It comes down to psychological and emotional factors. Since this is the case, I have taken another look at Maslow's Hierarchy of Human Motivation, often referred to as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
I remember studying Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in High school and wondered how relevant it is today. First, this is a theory, and it's based on something other than facts. However, some research reveals that even though many of these needs are universal, the order in which these needs get met has little impact on people's satisfaction with life, even though this works against Maslow’s theory. You can read more about it here.
People buy products out of a need.
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, a well-known psychological theory, suggests that we address basic needs (food, shelter, clothing) before progressing to higher levels on the pyramid, such as social, emotional, and self-actualization. One would think that romance novels would fall on these levels, but I build a case that a romance novel can fill the entire pyramid on every level.
I believe that love and belonging is the most basic of needs, like food and shelter. How can you live without it? I have a theory too. Freeman's Touch Theory. Why shouldn't I have my own theory? The further we move away from human interaction and the more time we spend on our computers and phones, the more violence increases in the world. Therefore, romance books are transformative and necessary. I would prescribe them as essential for men and women. We may need to change the name of romance books. We can save that discussion for another day; I'm going off-topic.
Let's look at the specifics of Maslow's Hierarchy and how each level applies to Romance Novels:
Physiological Needs: While romance novels may not directly address physiological needs such as food or shelter, they can provide a form of relaxation and escapism that contributes to overall well-being. Reading can also reduce stress and promote mental health, indirectly supporting physiological needs. I know that when I read a book I’m often transported to another world. I know I’m taking a big leap here.
Safety Needs: Romance novels frequently explore themes of love, security, and emotional fulfillment. These narratives offer readers a sense of comfort and reassurance as they follow the characters' journeys towards resolving past issues and problems. By witnessing the characters' struggles and eventual triumphs, readers may find validation for their own yearnings for comfort within relationships. While some romance novels may include content warnings, for those who are willing to confront their past, these stories can serve as a source of healing from past traumas.
Love and Belongingness Needs: At their core, romance novels revolve around themes of love, intimacy, and connection, which are fundamental to fulfilling love and belongingness needs. By immersing themselves in the romantic relationships portrayed in these novels, readers may experience a sense of emotional connection and belonging. Men especially can learn a variety of lessons, despite the genre often being stereotypically associated with women.
Understanding Emotional Intelligence: Men can learn about empathy, communication, and understanding the needs of their partner through reading about other characters.
Exploring Vulnerability: By seeing a male character be vulnerable they see it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Vulnerability allows you to establish a deeper connection with your partner.
Respecting Boundaries and asking consent: Some romance novels emphasize the importance of consent and respecting boundaries in romantic interactions.
Gestures of Affection: Romance novels show a variety of expressions of affections. Man can learn the importance of expressing love and affection and thoughtful actions.
Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Some romance novels challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes, depicting characters who defy societal expectations.
Esteem Needs: Romance novels can contribute to feelings of self-worth and validation by depicting characters overcoming obstacles and finding love and acceptance. Identifying with characters who experience personal growth and fulfillment can boost readers' self-esteem and confidence.
Self-Actualization Needs: Romance novels can contribute to feelings of self-worth and validation by depicting characters overcoming obstacles and finding love and acceptance. Romance novels depict our characters transforming in positive ways, giving our reader hope that they can too.
Romance novels can satisfy Maslow's hierarchy of needs by providing emotional fulfillment and opportunities for self-reflection. Romance novels fulfill fundamental human needs by addressing themes of love, intimacy, and connection. By being specific about how our book will meet Maslow's hierarchy of needs, we may be able convince buyers to push the buy button.
News:
Plotter is now an affiliate. What does this mean? This means I receive a payment if you purchase the product through this page. I do not charge for this publication. By purchasing Plotter through this underlined link or the logo above, I receive a payment. Not enough to take a trip anywhere, but enough for a two-egg breakfast with bacon, hash browns and coffee at the diner for one person. Think level one on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Ha!
Having some income for the newsletter offsets the time I put into researching and writing. I am a lifetime member of Plottr and I find it useful. You can read more about this software in this past newsletter. From now on, the Plottr logo will appear at the bottom of the page. In the future, I will seek more affiliate sponsors to sustain the newsletter and build my audience. This will allow me to only ask subscribers for financial payment through the purchase of a product that they would buy anyway, not charge for the newsletter. I want to assure you that I won't become an affiliate for anything that I haven't used, purchased myself and written about in this newsletter.
I hope you support my decision. Please feel free to comment.