

The purpose of all behavior is to create a match between what we perceive and what we want. our Quality World picture of what we want at that moment Our brain continually compares two images:Ģ. Talk to a couple of Red Sox and Yankee fans and you’ll quickly understand that the same “real world” is perceived very differently because of their value filters.We may all agree that Barack Obama is president of the United States, but there are multiple perceptions about how “good” or bad” a president he is.We behave based on what we perceive to be real, whether we are right or wrong.Ĭhoice Theory states that information passes through three distinct filters as we create our perception of reality:īecause of these filters, two or more people may witness the same event or participate in the same activity and develop radically different perceptions. Think of people who have fun when hurting others physically or emotionally.Ĭhoice Theory suggests that parents, educators, and the community at large can promote environments that encourage others to develop Quality World pictures that let them satisfy their needs responsibly.Įven though we all live in the Real World, Choice Theory contends that what matters is our perception of reality.Think of people who only feel a sense of power or freedom when drinking alcohol or taking other drugs.Some people develop Quality World pictures that are unhealthy and irresponsible. Throughout our lives, we add and delete “pictures” from our Quality World. I have fun when I am playing outside with my children.

THEORIES USED IN BOB KNOWLTON CASE FREE
The strength of each need varies from person to person.įor example, some are more driven by the social need to love and belong while others are more driven by the need to be free and autonomous.Įach of us develops a unique Quality World, the source of all motivation. Choice Theory SummaryĪ basic understanding of Choice Theory requires some knowledge of the following 5 key concepts:Īll behavior is purposeful, motivated by our incessant desire to satisfy the basic needs woven into our genes.

People who develop shared “ quality world pictures” are motivated to pursue common goals and are more likely to work collaboratively. It emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships with others to create a shared vision. Internal MotivationĬhoice Theory teaches that we are always motivated by what we want at that moment.
