Reality Therapy
Dr. William Glasser, founder of reality therapy, believed that many of the issues that people experience come from unsatisfactory relationships. Reality therapy is a process-related therapy that focuses on improving relationships. Educators, parents, psychologists, physicians, social workers and mental health workers have embraced reality therapy as an effective way to treat a variety of interpersonal issues.
What is Reality Therapy?
The first step in reality therapy is to form a secure, safe and supportive client-therapist relationship. Once a strong therapeutic partnership has been established, your therapist begins the process of getting you to focus on the present, not the past. He/she asks you a series of questions to get a better understanding of your mind frame. Once your therapist has a better understanding of your thought processes, he/she helps you recognize the effects your feelings and behaviors have on your current relationships.
Once you gain a deeper understanding of how your behaviors are connected to your current relationships then you and your therapist work together to develop new strategies that can correct those adverse behaviors and improve your relationships. With the help of your therapist you learn how to take control of your issues and improve the quality of your relationships.
Reality therapy not only empowers you, it also helps build your self-confidence. Once you and your therapist have developed effective strategies to help improve your quality of life, your next step in the process is to offer 100% commitment to your treatment plan. In order for this type of therapy to be effective you must be candid and authentic during the therapy process.
One of the key elements of reality therapy is your commitment to the therapy process. Taking responsibility for your part in therapy is imperative for success. The accountability factory, either verbally or through a formal contract, is what makes this therapy approach “real.” In addition, you and your therapist must agree early on that failure is not a possibility. Giving up and making excuses is unacceptable in reality therapy; you must stay committed to the therapy process until you and your therapist find a plan that works for you.
What Happens In Reality Therapy?
A trustworthy and supportive environment is required for reality therapy to be effective. You must feel safe and secure if you are going to transform your life.
The following guidelines are required to receive the maximum benefits from reality therapy:
- Being open and honest during the therapy process
- Concentrating on present relationships and issues
- Acknowledgement of how your feelings influence your behaviors
- Accepting that there are no excuses for immature and/or reckless behaviors
- Avoiding insults, criticism and/or disparaging remarks or behaviors
What Psychological Theory Does Reality Therapy Follow?
Everyone has basic needs that must be met. When these needs are not met it causes dysfunction and conflict in your life. Your reality therapist not only helps you figure out what you really want and works with you to help you get those wants fulfilled; he/she also helps you determine whether your behaviors are helping or hindering you from reaching your goals and assists you in developing a plan that will help you successfully obtain the things that you want in life.
The five basic needs that most people want fulfilled are:
- Dominance – People tend to want to “win” or achieve something of importance. This is often tied to a sense of self-worth.
- Belonging– People want to feel loved and connected to their loved ones, friends, family and/or their community.
- Autonomy – People typically want to be independent and make their own decisions.
- Pleasure – Most people want some excitement in their life. They want to have fun and enjoy life to the fullest.
- Survival – People want a safe place to live, food to eat and sexual satisfaction.
What Types of Psychological Issues are Treated with Reality Therapy?
Reality therapy is effective for addressing a variety of adjustment issues, but it is most beneficial for treating delicate and complex interpersonal issues. This approach to therapy is especially valuable if you are experiencing issues pertaining to race, sexual orientation, religion and/or culture because they have the ability to negatively affect relationships and cause a variety of psychological and interpersonal issues. Reality therapy educates people on the importance of equality as a way to reduce prejudice and discrimination, strengthen relationships and resolve interpersonal issues.
Furthermore, this type of therapy encourages compassion and understanding in a “real” way. It not only helps you recognize and confront your issues, but also helps you improve your relationships and resolve your problems.
Reality therapy is best used with families because this therapy approach allows each family member to express his/her needs and wants in a supportive, accepting and respectful environment. Your reality therapist works with you and your family members to develop an effective plan that strengthens your familial relationships, fosters a deeper understanding of one another and helps you learn how to work together to resolve issues within the family.
References:
Atkinson, C. (2005). How problem solving helps meet the five needs. International Journal of Reality Therapy, 25(1), 30-33.
Wubbolding, R. E. (2010). Reality therapy: Theories of psychotherapy. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
