Table of Contents
What type of theory is choice theory?
Introduction. Choice theory is an explanation of human behaviour developed by Dr William Glasser. Dr Glasser explains that all we do all our lives is behave, and is that we choose our behaviour in an attempt to meet one or more of the five basic human needs that are built into our genetic structure. Developed by psychiatrist William Glasser, Choice Theory states humans are motivated by a never-ending quest to satisfy 5 basic needs woven into our genes: to love and belong, to be powerful, to be free, to have fun and to survive. Specifically: Survival, belonging, power, freedom, and fun. Glasser suggests that almost all behavior is chosen, and we are driven by genetics to satisfy five basic needs: survival, love and belonging, power, freedom and fun. In choice theory, the most important need is love and belonging because connectedness with others is required as a basis in satisfying all other needs. Rational Choice Theory states that people use rational calculations to make rational choices and achieve outcomes that are aligned with their own, personal objectives. Everyone makes choices by first considering the costs, risks, and benefits of making certain choices. Rational choice theory looks at three concepts: rational actors, self interest and the invisible hand. Rationality can be used as an assumption for the behaviour of individuals in a wide range of contexts outside of economics. It is also used in political science, sociology, and philosophy. The many different decisions just about everyone has to make fall into three broad categories—consumer choices, complex choices, and personal life choices.
What is the importance of choice theory?
Rational choice theory can be helpful in understanding individual and collective behaviors. It helps to pinpoint why people, groups and society as a whole move toward certain choices, based on specific costs and rewards. Rational choice theory also helps to explain seemingly “irrational” behavior. Rational choice theory can be helpful in understanding individual and collective behaviors. It helps to pinpoint why people, groups and society as a whole move toward certain choices, based on specific costs and rewards. Rational choice theory also helps to explain seemingly “irrational” behavior. The key premise of rational choice theory is that people don’t randomly select products off the shelf. Rather, they use a logical decision-making process that takes into account the costs and benefits of various options, weighing the options against each other. Choice theory emphasizes the individual’s control over his or her feelings and actions. Conflict arises because we can only control our own behavior. The William Glasser theory teaches the concept that all behavior is chosen. The term choice theory is the work of William Glasser, MD, author of the book so named, and is the culmination of some 50 years of theory and practice in psychology and counseling. Choice theory in education provides an intrinsic model of teaching and learning that is focused on increasing students’ self-understanding and their ability to evaluate their choices and schoolwork for quality and effectiveness.