What is referred to as states of felt deprivation?

The term "states of felt deprivation" is best represented by the concept of needs. Needs are basic human requirements that arise from a sense of deprivation; they include essential elements like food, clothing, safety, and shelter. When individuals experience a lack of these necessities, it creates a feeling of deprivation, motivating them to seek out ways to fulfill these needs.

In the context of marketing, understanding needs is crucial because they form the foundation for consumer behavior. Needs drive consumers to look for solutions in the marketplace, which can lead to the development of products and services aimed at addressing those needs. This is different from wants, which are specific forms of consumption that can satisfy needs but are influenced by culture and individual personality. Demands will arise when consumers have both the desire and the ability to purchase specific products that address their needs. Similarly, market offerings refer to the products and services provided to satisfy consumer needs and wants.

Thus, needs encompass the fundamental states of felt deprivation that trigger consumer action and play a pivotal role in shaping marketing strategies.