Reality through the looking Glasser.

What is Reality Therapy?

Reality Therapy is a form of psychotherapy developed by William Glasser, which emphasises personal responsibility and focuses on the present moment rather than past experiences.

The theory behind Reality Therapy is that people are responsible for their own behaviour and that they can choose to change their behaviour in order to improve their lives.

The therapy is based on the belief that people have five basic needs: survival, love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun.

According to Reality Therapy, people may experience emotional distress or depression  when our needs are not being met.

The therapist works with the individual to identify the unmet needs and develop a plan to meet them in a more effective and constructive manner.

The therapy typically involves a collaborative effort between the therapist and the individual to set goals, develop strategies for achieving those goals, and take actions to implement those strategies.

The therapist provides support and guidance as the individual learns to take responsibility for their own behavior and make positive changes in their life.

Criticisms of Reality Therapy.

One criticism is that it may oversimplify complex psychological problems. While the focus on personal responsibility and the present moment can be helpful, some individuals may have underlying psychological issues that require more in-depth exploration and treatment which would be more appropriate for psychotherapy. 

Another criticism is that the therapy may place too much emphasis on external behavior and not enough on underlying emotions and thoughts.

This could potentially lead to the individual simply masking their feelings or engaging in superficial behavior change, rather than addressing deeper psychological issues.

Some also argue that the therapy may not be effective for all individuals or all types of problems. For example, individuals with severe mental health disorders may require more specialised and intensive treatment.

Despite these criticisms, Reality Therapy can still be a useful approach for some individuals, particularly those who are seeking practical solutions and are motivated to take responsibility for their own behaviour. As with any form of therapy, it is important to carefully evaluate its appropriateness and effectiveness for each individual's unique situation.

I notice that Reality Therapy has some similarities with Logotherapy. The focus on the present and future, rather than the past, and aim to help individuals take responsibility for their own lives and find meaning and purpose.

Overall, Reality Therapy is a practical and solution-focused approach that helps individuals take charge of their lives, improve their relationships, and achieve greater personal fulfillment.

Harley Street Counselling and Training 2023.

Bibliography.

Glasser, W. (1965). Reality therapy: A new approach to psychiatry. Harper & Row.

Glasser, W. (1989). The identity society. Harper & Row.

Wubbolding, R. E. (2011). Reality therapy: Theories of psychotherapy series. American Psychological Association.

Wubbolding, R. E. (2012). Reality therapy for the 21st century. Routledge.

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