Tuesday, December 6, 2016

What is Glasser’s Choice Theory?

By Kimberly Swanson, M.S. - Psy., CNA

Choice Theory was created by Dr. William Glasser which is based on human behavior.  The purpose of this theorization is assist in getting a better understanding why individuals do certain behaviors. Choice theorization is based on the belief that all behaviors reveal a person’s attempt to accomplish one or more of the five innate psychological a physiological needs (Crawford, Bodine, Hoglund, 1993).  

Crawford and colleagues (1993) mentions that with choice theory, individuals or occurrences that takes place outside of self does not stimulate a person to do certain things.  Instead human behavior is usually representative of the choices that we believe is most fulfilling to our needs at the time.  In other words we follow the rules within society to get purposeful outcome.    For instance, when driving, when the light is green at a red light we know that it means go, but if the light is red we know that that it means to stop.  We would not drive off on a red light because we know that there is some repercussion when we don’t follow the rules such as getting a ticket or getting into a car accident.  We make quick decision and the spear of the minute or during each circumstance to fulfill our currents situation.

According to Crawford and colleagues (1993) there are two types of needs, basic needs and psychological needs.   The basic needs include the following (Crawford and colleagues, 1993): 

     (a) Need for survival,
     (b) Need for belonging,
     (c) Need for having power,
     (d) Need for freedom, and
     (e) Need for enjoyment. 

Choice theory can also be applied to more complex situations or circumstances.  For instance, if you are studying the behaviors of patients you notice that certain patient so not follow up with their prescribed medications.  You may research further and realize that certain patients do not take their prescribed medications because they do not have not insurance and can’t afford to pay the full prices of their medications.  This research helps doctors to see what they can do for certain patients to have proper access to their medication by finding other  alternatives to that ensure that the  patient’s needs are being met and can assist them having more options in caring for their health such as prescribing generic medications instead of name brands which are more affordable. 

The patient may want to get the medications but have the weigh the options certain financial obligations which lead to the limited choice of paying rent and keep a roof head for family or going without blood pressure medicines for a while.  This type of choice can have deadly affects such increasing the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.  The doctor may intervene by providing a better choice for the patient of getting free or lower cost blood pressure medications so that their patient can stay on top of their health.  This is an example of a more complexed matter that may take place with choice theorization within the healthcare industry.

According to Glasser, Choice theory it assists people in having a better understanding of themselves and the occurrences that may take place in their lives in which they can’t control.  This theory is based on Reality Therapy, Quality Schools and Lead Management.  Choice theorization also examines both toxic and positive nurturing relationships patterns.  It shows clients how to reduce toxic and increase nurturing patterns and improves interpersonal relationships which increase happiness and fulfillment. 

Reference

Crawford, D.K., Bodine, R., & Hoglund, R.  (1993). The school for quality learning: Managing the school and classroom the deeming way.  Champaign:  Research Press.    

Copyright in 2016 by ©Messenger Publishing, Inc.

No comments:

Post a Comment