Reality Therapy
William Glasser, the main proponent of reality therapy, believed that individuals are not similar to robots that move and act when controlled by others. Instead, he argued that all individuals possess five biological needs, mainly survival, love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun. These needs direct human behaviour and are present in everyone. However, the question of which of these five needs are dominant may vary from one person to another. He also added that our brain has a special place called “quality world” that contains all memories we consider pleasing. This also includes our beliefs, whether personal or convictional.
The choice theory states that behaviour is holistic. Behaviour is composed of four inseparable components, mainly acting, thinking, feeling and physiology. In the therapy, the freedom of choice is a primary rule. Therapists are not allowed to use any form of control or manipulation or coercion of the client’s behaviour. Through this manner, clients are encouraged to be creative and to take risks. In reality therapy, the main goal of the therapist is to lead the client to change of behaviour. Take note, leading the client to change of behaviour is different from changing the client’s behaviour. Glasser also specified the conditions necessary for the client to change behaviour like ensuring that the client is convinced that what they are presently doing is unproductive or irrational and convincing the client that other behaviours can help him or her be more productive.
Reality therapy uses the WDEP system – the discovery and analysis of the client’s wants and needs, directions and doings, evaluation, and planning and commitment. The client initially shares what he or she really wants in life and what stops him or her from getting what she wants. Then, the client’s behaviour and its influence on the client are further explored by the therapist. An evaluation follows, and the therapy is usually closed with the client identifying personal action plans and expressing commitment to his or her personal action plans.
You can learn more about William Glasser and reality therapy from http://wglasser.com.
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