One Of The Key Theorists Behind Choice Theory

William Glasser is one of the key theorists behind choice theory and reality therapy (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). Choice theory is the foundation and reality therapy is the implementation of the theory (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). According to choice theory, people are only in control of their own behavior (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). Further, this theory identifies that people think that others can be controlled, this is when relationship breakdown can occur (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). The overall theory focuses on the motivation to fulfill needs and wants and people’s harmful functioning is a breakdown in meeting their needs in beneficial ways (Henderson & Thompson, 2011).Therefore, reality therapy helps people to gain greater control
The counseling method focuses on people realizing that there are many choices in any situation and when people realize that what they are doing is not working to get them what they want, change can occur (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). Reality therapy uses choice and assessment as the process of this therapy (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). Originally, reality therapy followed an eight step process that focused on building the relationship, examining the behavior, evaluating the behavior, brainstorming alternatives, committing to a new plan, evaluating the results, accepting consequences, and encouragement and never giving up until the right response is obtained (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). Another procedure presented by Robert Wubbolding is called the WDEP system (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). In this system the W stands for want, which focuses on the student’s wants, needs, and perceptions (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). The D stands for direction and doing, which focuses on the student’s behavior (Henderson & Thompson, 2011). The E stands for evaluation to see if what the student is doing is helping or hampering them from getting what they want (Henderson & Thompson,