Exploring a Conceptual Framework of Koreans’ Residential Satisfaction Based on Maslow’s Human Needs: A Qualitative and Quantitative Integrated Study

Abstract

Previous studies on residential satisfaction factors (RSFs) overlooked residents’ psychological needs. To bridge this gap, we linked RSFs to the Modified Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs (MMHN) through a three-step qualitative and quantitative integrated analysis. First, RSFs were derived from the analysis of previous studies. Second, through an analytic hierarchy process and a focus group interview, RSFs and the MMHN were linked. Third, the MMHN-based model was applied to data from the 2020 Korea Housing Survey, and classification and regression tree analysis were performed to derive significant factors, which were then compared to significant factors from the conventional model. The comparative analysis results of the conventional and MMHN-based models were as follows: (1) The MMHN-based model presented significant factors in all five stages of human needs, reflecting various human needs. (2) The MMHN-based model assessed the housing needs of residents in the non-capital region in more detail. (3) The MMHN-based model investigated the differences in residential satisfaction factors between metropolitan and non-metropolitan regions more clearly. (4) Two factors influencing safety needs important in all regions in both models were deemed crucial for residential satisfaction. This study could support the customization of regional housing policies according to unique needs and life circumstances by region.