What is the function of the "reality check" in therapy?

The function of the "reality check" in therapy is to assess whether current behaviors meet needs. This is a crucial aspect of Choice Theory and Reality Therapy, where the focus is on helping individuals understand their actions in relation to their needs and desires. The reality check serves as a mechanism for clients to evaluate whether their current choices are effective in fulfilling their basic needs such as belonging, power, freedom, and fun.

By engaging clients in this assessment, therapists guide them in recognizing discrepancies between their behaviors and their life goals, encouraging conscious decision-making about how to better fulfill their needs. This process helps facilitate change by making clients aware of the consequences of their behaviors, ultimately fostering more fulfilling choices and interactions.