How does reality psychotherapy view transference?

Reality therapy, developed by William Glasser, emphasizes personal responsibility and the importance of present behavior rather than past experiences. In this therapeutic approach, transference is often viewed as detrimental because it can divert attention away from the client's current behavior and choices. Reality therapy focuses on helping clients meet their needs in the present rather than being preoccupied with past relationships or unresolved conflicts that transference may highlight. Therefore, if a client begins to transfer feelings from past figures onto the therapist, it could hinder the therapeutic process, as the focus should remain on current issues and the client's ability to make choices to improve their life.

The other perspectives regarding transference, such as considering it a beneficial tool or a critical component of therapy, align more closely with other therapeutic modalities, like psychodynamic approaches. These methodologies see transference as an opportunity for insight into the client’s relational patterns. However, reality therapy’s main goal is to facilitate present-focused self-evaluation and personal agency, making the perception of transference as detrimental more consistent with its fundamental principles.