What is a primary goal of reality therapy?

• A. Help client explore unconscious content
• B. Help client analyze dreams
• C. Help client assume responsibility for goals, be committed to those goals, plan actions, and carry out these plans in everyday life
• D. Help client develop symptom-focused coping

Answer: (C)

Reality therapy centers on the idea that people have the power to shape their lives through the choices they make in the present. Its primary goal is to help clients take responsibility for their actions, commit to chosen goals, plan concrete steps to achieve those goals, and carry out those plans in everyday life. By focusing on present behavior and practical action, clients learn to evaluate whether their actions are helping them meet their needs and the needs of others, and they adjust their plans accordingly. This emphasis on accountability and actionable change is what makes this goal the best fit. The other options pull in approaches that explore unconscious content or dream analysis or focus mainly on coping with symptoms, rather than guiding proactive behavior change in the here and now.