What is the primary goal of reality/choice therapists when assessing a client's total behavior?

The primary goal of reality/choice therapists in assessing a client's total behavior revolves around understanding the client's current choices and actions in relation to their needs and desires. Reality therapy, developed by William Glasser, emphasizes personal responsibility and how individuals can make choices to fulfill their basic needs for love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun.

In this therapeutic approach, therapists focus on the present and the choices clients make, rather than delving deeply into the past unless necessary for understanding current behavior. The aim is to empower clients to recognize the behaviors they engage in and understand how these align with or impede their goals for satisfaction and wellbeing. Therefore, rather than viewing past influences as the primary focus, reality/choice therapists concentrate on the here-and-now to promote positive change and more effective decision-making.

The other options do not align with the foundational principles of reality therapy. Criticizing clients, for instance, would be counterproductive; the therapy aims to support and guide clients toward more constructive choices rather than engage in confrontational dynamics. Similarly, facilitating arguments or ignoring clients' excuses do not foster the therapeutic alliance needed for effective therapy. Instead, the emphasis is placed on understanding and guiding clients in their pursuit of more fulfilling lives through conscious decision-making.