Choice Theory: An Interview With Dr. William Glasser

Abstract

This article presents the work of William Glasser. The interview addresses his current emphasis on helping people to improve their own mental health as explained in the 2003 book, Warning: Psychiatry Can Be Hazardous to Your Mental Health.

The Underutilization of Mental Health Care Services in the Lives of People with Blindness or Visual Impairment: A Literature Review on Rehabilitation Factors Toward Provision

“…117 As William Glasser pragmatically explained in a published interview by Onedera and Greenwalt: That’s the definition of mental health; it is healthy relationships and especially relationships that are so healthy that you don’t try to change people around you…you eliminate the use of what I call ‘external control psychology’ from the relationship…and so it’s a triple metaphor, mental health equals happiness equals choice theory. 130 …”

“…Further, concepts learned through this podcast project may assist people with BVI in making sound choices related to seeking privatized mental health care, disconnected from VR entirely. When considering what was found in the research by 60 related to the overall discontent with VR-related services by people with BVI (eg, timeliness, appropriateness), concepts from reality therapy may be beneficial to reducing the proclivity to “persist” in such situations, and rather “abandon” attempting to single-handedly control such a complex structural system; indeed, healthy relationships begin when individuals can notice the nature and benefit of relationships and their unique role and needs within it, 117 adjusting as necessary (see also 130 ).…”

“…117 As William Glasser pragmatically explained in a published interview by Onedera and Greenwalt: That's the definition of mental health; it is healthy relationships and especially relationships that are so healthy that you don't try to change people around you…you eliminate the use of what I call 'external control psychology' from the relationship…and so it's a triple metaphor, mental health equals happiness equals choice theory. 130 When considering the current research indicating the concentration of mental health resources for people with BVI a consequence of VR-related assessment and evaluation (eg, see 86,87 ), the relationship between VR (ie, case managers, counselors) and people with BVI is one that requires a re-establishment of the notion of locus of control (eg, see 131 ). Oppressive and structural systems challenge social influence thereby impacting social constructions, leading to recursive effects.…”