Concepts/Principles

According to Bob Sullo, Instructor, William Glasser Institute,

"Discussing Choice Theory is always an interesting challenge for me. Choice Theory is simultaneously
easy to understand and amazingly complex and multifaceted. Learning Choice Theory has been
compared to learning to sail: 'Even if you have never sailed before, I could take you out this afternoon
and teach you how to sail in just a few hours. You would then spend the rest of your life learning how to
sail!'

Choice Theory is based on the assumption that all behavior represents the individual's constant attempt
to satisfy one or more of five basic inborn needs. In other words, no behavior is caused by any situation
or person outside of the individual.

Choice Theory is based on the simple premise that every individual only has the power to control
themselves and has limited power to control others. Applying Choice Theory allows one to take
responsibility for one's own life and at the same time, withdraw from attempting to direct other
people's decisions and lives.

Given that Choice Theory is being studied and practiced around the world, what are the Principles of
human behavior that Choice Theory desires to honor and promote?

ONE – Every human being behaves for totally personal reasons.

TWO – The only person we have a chance to control is ourselves.

THREE – All behavior is purposeful.

FOUR – Attempts to control another person’s behavior will end poorly.

FIVE – Positive changes in behavior always come from tapping into a person’s strengths, not from trying
to eliminate a person’s weakness.

SIX – Positive changes are fueled by positive relationships with key individuals.

SEVEN – Effective assessment is standards-based and always includes self-evaluation.

Impact to education: Application and curriculum Practices

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. The classroom should therefore be a needs-satisfying
place for students. It has been utilized in schools across the globe and has changed the ways that
teachers deliver instruction.
The role of teachers as managers requires them to guide students in understanding that working hard
and being obedient is worth it and will have a positive influence on their lives. Teachers can achieve this
through developing positive relationships with students and creating active, relevant learning
experiences that enable students to demonstrate mastery and success. When it comes to developing
lessons, teachers who practice choice theory work to make sure that student classroom activities are
designed to satisfy the students’ needs. This allows learning to increase while diminishing disruption.
Students are able to “connect, feel a sense of competence and power, have some freedom, and enjoy
themselves in a safe, secure environment,”

Reflection and Insights

As for the major concept in Choice Theory it is the notion that we always have some choice about how
to behave. This does not mean that we have unlimited choice or that outside information is irrelevant as
we choose how to behave. It means that we have more control than some people might believe and
that we are responsible for the choices we make. I'd like to share what Bob Sullo stated "I hope you're
interested in 'learning how to sail,' regardless of how much knowledge and experience with Choice
Theory you bring to the voyage. The journey is an exciting one. As you become more skilled and
proficient in applying the concepts provided in Choice Theory, I believe you will experience your
essential humanity in a powerful way. You will discover that you are internally motivated, responsible,
and able to grow into the person you would like to be."