# Background knowledge to deeply understand ‘Choice Theory: A New Psychology of Personal Freedom’ by William Glasser
**William Glasser’s Background and Influences**
William Glasser (1925-2013) was an American psychiatrist who developed Choice Theory, a psychological framework that emphasizes personal responsibility and the power of choice in shaping our lives. To deeply understand Choice Theory, it’s crucial to consider Glasser’s background and the intellectual influences that shaped his thinking. Glasser earned his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Case Western Reserve University in 1945 and later shifted his focus to clinical psychology, receiving his master’s degree in 1949 and his medical degree in 1953 from Western Reserve University.
Glasser’s early career involved working with delinquent girls at the Ventura School for Girls in California. His experiences there challenged traditional psychological approaches that focused on past trauma and external factors as the primary determinants of behavior. He observed that focusing on the past often led to feelings of powerlessness and a lack of motivation for change. This led him to question the efficacy of conventional methods and explore alternative ways of understanding human behavior.
Several intellectual influences contributed to the development of Glasser’s Choice Theory. One significant influence was the work of psychiatrist Alfred Adler, who emphasized the importance of social factors and individual striving for significance in shaping behavior. Glasser was also influenced by the work of psychologist Abraham Maslow, who proposed a hierarchy of human needs, highlighting the innate human drive for self-actualization. Additionally, Glasser drew inspiration from the field of control theory, particularly the work of William T. Powers, which emphasized the role of feedback loops in regulating behavior. These influences helped Glasser formulate a theory that focused on the present, personal responsibility, and the individual’s inherent capacity for change.
**Key Concepts in Traditional Psychology Relevant to Choice Theory**
To further appreciate the context within which Choice Theory emerged, it’s helpful to understand some key concepts from traditional psychological perspectives that Glasser’s work challenged or expanded upon.
**Behaviorism:** This school of thought, prominent in the early 20th century, emphasized the role of environmental stimuli in shaping behavior through classical and operant conditioning. Behaviorists like B.F. Skinner believed that behavior could be understood and modified primarily through external rewards and punishments. While Glasser acknowledged the role of external factors, he argued that internal motivations and choices played a more significant role in driving behavior.
**Psychoanalysis:** Founded by Sigmund Freud, psychoanalysis emphasizes the influence of unconscious drives and early childhood experiences on personality and behavior. Psychoanalytic therapy often involves exploring past traumas and repressed emotions to gain insight into present-day difficulties. While Glasser acknowledged the importance of the past, he believed that focusing on it could be counterproductive and that individuals had the capacity to make conscious choices to change their behavior in the present.
**Cognitive Psychology:** This approach focuses on mental processes such as perception, memory, and problem-solving. Cognitive psychologists emphasize the role of thoughts and beliefs in influencing emotions and behavior. Glasser’s Choice Theory incorporated aspects of cognitive psychology, acknowledging the importance of our perceptions and internal dialogue in shaping our choices. However, he went beyond cognitive psychology by emphasizing that we ultimately have control over our thoughts and can choose to focus on those that are more helpful and productive.
**Social and Cultural Context Surrounding Choice Theory’s Development**
Choice Theory emerged during a time of significant social and cultural change in the United States. The 1960s and 70s witnessed movements advocating for civil rights, women’s liberation, and personal freedom. These social movements challenged traditional norms and hierarchies and emphasized individual empowerment and self-determination. Glasser’s Choice Theory resonated with these broader cultural trends, providing a psychological framework that supported personal responsibility and the power of individuals to shape their own lives.
Furthermore, the field of mental health was also undergoing a transformation during this period. There was a growing dissatisfaction with traditional psychiatric approaches, particularly the use of institutionalization and the emphasis on pathology. The community mental health movement advocated for more humane and person-centered approaches to treatment. Choice Theory aligned with this movement by emphasizing the individual’s inherent capacity for change and promoting a collaborative therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client.
In summary, understanding Choice Theory requires considering the diverse influences that shaped William Glasser’s thinking, including his personal experiences, intellectual influences from various psychological schools, and the broader social and cultural context within which his ideas emerged. By exploring these backgrounds, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the unique perspective that Choice Theory offers on human behavior and psychological well-being.
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Reading while your motivation is high leads to better comprehension.
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