Reality therapy is built around which core components?

• A. Goal-setting, personal accountability, and contracts
• B. Transference and dream analysis
• C. Free association
• D. Behavior modification

Answer: (A)

Reality therapy centers on helping clients take control of their present choices and act in ways that meet their needs, guided by Choice Theory. The most fitting set of components emphasizes practical, client-driven action: setting clear goals, owning one’s actions through personal accountability, and using contracts to formalize commitment to specific behaviors. Goal-setting provides a concrete direction for what the client wants to achieve. Personal accountability reinforces that the client is the agent of change and must accept the outcomes of their choices. Contracts turn intentions into concrete, enforceable plans with agreed steps and consequences, which strengthens follow-through and responsibility.

This approach sits alongside the WDEP framework—Wants, Doing, Evaluation of what’s happening, Plan—which helps ensure the client’s actions stay aligned with their goals. Other approaches mentioned arise from different traditions, such as psychodynamic methods that use transference or dream analysis, or free association, and behavior modification that focuses more on external reinforcement rather than personal responsibility and contractual commitment.