<P> After physiological and safety needs are fulfilled , the third level of human needs are seen to be interpersonal and involves feelings of belongingness . This need is especially strong in childhood and it can override the need for safety as witnessed in children who cling to abusive parents . Deficiencies within this level of Maslow 's hierarchy -- due to hospitalism , neglect , shunning , ostracism , etc. -- can adversely affect the individual 's ability to form and maintain emotionally significant relationships in general . </P>
the basic need associated with the third level of maslow 's hierarchy of needs is
feelings of belongingness