Which component is NOT part of Maslow's hierarchy?

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the components are organized from the most basic physiological needs to higher-level psychological needs. The recognized levels include physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.

Self-transcendence is sometimes considered a further extension of this model, representing a level where individuals seek to achieve beyond the self — thus, it is acknowledged in some interpretations of Maslow's work. Aesthetic needs pertain to the human desire for beauty and artistic experiences, which can be argued to fit into Maslow's framework as individuals seek balance and harmony in life through aesthetics.

Emotional needs, while important in understanding human behavior, do not have a defined place in Maslow’s original hierarchy of needs. They are more abstract and can often be encapsulated within other needs, such as love and belonging, rather than being a standalone category within the hierarchy. Therefore, emotional needs do not correspond directly to any specific level outlined by Maslow. Hence, this makes it the option that does not belong in his well-known framework.