What is the focus of Glasser's Reality Theory?

Glasser's Reality Theory focuses on the idea that individuals are responsible for their own choices and the subsequent consequences of those choices. This approach emphasizes that people can control their behavior by making choices aligned with their needs and values. The theory posits that individuals have an intrinsic motivation to fulfill their basic needs—such as the need for love, power, freedom, fun, and survival—through their actions. By recognizing personal responsibility, individuals can understand how their decisions impact their lives and relationships, empowering them to make changes that lead to more fulfilling experiences.

This theory is distinct in that it does not dwell on external circumstances or historical events as primary factors influencing behavior. Instead, it asserts that individuals are capable of taking charge of their lives by acknowledging and owning their decisions. This perspective can facilitate personal growth and the development of healthier relationships, as it encourages clients to focus on what they can do in the present to improve their situation.

In contrast to this focus, options discussing societal norms or addressing historical trauma shift the attention away from individual responsibility and decision-making, which are central tenants of Reality Theory. Similarly, while personal freedom and autonomy relate to the individual’s capacity to make choices, they are more about the broader concept of freedom rather than the specific emphasis on personal