North Carolina Correctional Officer State Practice Exam

Which factor is NOT considered in determining whether an action is a 'want' or a 'need'?

1. Survival necessity

2. Financial cost

3. Desire for possession

4. Impact on quality of life

The correct answer is: Desire for possession

The distinction between a 'want' and a 'need' typically revolves around the essential nature of the item or action in question. A 'need' refers to something that is necessary for basic survival or essential functioning, such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare. In contrast, a 'want' is something that enhances life or provides pleasure but is not essential for survival. Survival necessity encompasses factors that are critical for maintaining life, while financial cost can influence one's ability to obtain something deemed a 'need' or a 'want.' The impact on quality of life often assesses how much an item or action contributes to well-being and satisfaction. The desire for possession, however, primarily reflects a personal or subjective feeling rather than a universal standard for classifying something as a 'want' or 'need.' This desire can vary widely from person to person, making it less relevant in the objective evaluation of whether something is essential for survival. Thus, this factor does not play a critical role in the fundamental distinction between what is considered a 'want' versus a 'need.'