Choice Theory
Dr. William Glasser’s
Approach & Conflict Resolution
Dr. William Glasser (b. May 11, 1925)
Choice Theory
• Choice Theory suggests that human meaning
and behavior are driven by 5 genetic needs,
the last 4 of which relate directly to Peer
Mediation: Survival, Belonging, Power,
Freedom, & Fun.
• Survival remains important to conflict
resolution, but can be excluded from most
school conflicts.
Choice Theory:
Based on 4 Common Human Needs
Choice Theory: Belonging
• Some species live largely alone, whilst others
have learned that if you form a tribe, you can
live more safely. Humans are tribal, and so we
all have a deep need to belong to groups.
• We fulfill the need to belong by loving,
sharing, and cooperating with others, and our
status within the group is determined by the
extent to which we do this.
Choice Theory: Belonging
Choice Theory: Power
• The desire to influence and exert control over
our reality is at the heart of the need for
power. The more power a person has, the
more likely that their wants will be satisfied.
• We fulfill the need for power by achieving,
accomplishing, and being recognized and
respected, all of which “prove” to us that we
can exert control over our universe.
Choice Theory: Power
Choice Theory: Freedom
• Freedom is an ideal, and a fundamental need.
It is embodied in many statements of rights,
and is related to power in that freedom means
being able to do what one wants.
• When people are free to act, they can do
things that otherwise might be repressed. We
fulfill the need for freedom by making choices
in our lives.
Choice Theory: Freedom
Choice Theory: Fun
• Humans tend to categorize experience on a
continuum between boredom and fun. We
move away from things that bore us and
toward things that are new and interesting,
that provide stimulation.
• We fulfill the need for fun by laughing and
playing, indications that our stimuli are
engaging and our lives are meaningful.
Choice Theory: Fun