Reflective self-analysis
This paper investigates the development of proactive personal behaviour through acceptance of responsibility and choice as a means to building self esteem and enhancing group relations.
It focuses on understanding individual behaviour from the perspective of Choice Theory (Glasser 1998) and applying this approach to reflect on and evaluate personal behaviour.
All readings required to complete this assessment are available within the 'Assessment 1: Reflective self-analysis' eReading folder via learnonline.
Assessment structure
Essay style using the following headings to identify sections:
- Introduction (2-3 sentences)
- Section 1.1 - Self-esteem(approx. 300 words)
- Section 1.2 - Responsible behaviour(approx. 700 words)
- Section 2.1 - Choice Theory(approx. 700 words)
- Section 2.2 - Reflective evaluation (approx. 300 words)
- Reference list (not included in word count)
Introduction(2-3 sentences)
Concisely specify ‘the purpose of the paper’ by describing what the topic is about and indicating the key theoretical foundations (referenced).Include a sentence about why this topic is important.
Section 1
The first section of the paper involves a review of, and personal reflection upon, the key information contained withinthe prescribedarticles. Use your own words to paraphrase and summarise key information to express your understanding of what you have read (andensure you reference appropriately) and then relate key theory as you reflect on your personalcontext.
* Note: always try to avoid/ minimise the use of direct quotes andinstead, paraphrase wherever possible. If using direct quotes make sure that they are cited appropriately.
Section 1.1 – Self esteem(approx. 300 words)
Read the following article:
Branden, N 1997,
What self-esteem is and is not, Nathaniel Branden,
http://www.nathanielbranden.com/discussions/self-esteem/what-self-esteem-is-and-is-not/>.
Guideline for writing:
- What are the key messages contained in the article relating to responsibility, choice and self esteem?
- Reflect on yourself briefly in relation to each of the ‘six pillars of self esteem’ and identifytwoareas in greater detail that you could develop further to sustain a healthy self esteem.Specify what you could do differently to enhance each area.
Section 1.2 – Responsible behaviour(approx. 700 words)
Read the following two articles:
Covey, SR 2004,
‘Be proactive’, in 7 habits of highly effective people: restoring the character ethic, Rev. edn, Free Press, New York, pp. 65–94.
Kemp, T & Piltz, W1995,‘Teaching personal responsibility through group adventure initiative tasks: an introduction to the model of responsible action’,The Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Leadership, vol.12, no. 2, pp. 23-26.
Guideline for writing:
- Compare and contrast the key messages contained in these articles relating to the concepts of responsibility and choice in behaviour. Identify the characteristics of proactive behaviour.
- Reflect on yourself in relation to ‘proactive vs reactive’ choice in behaviour and provide one example of personal behaviour (evidenced atany stage in your life) from each category - what was the situation; how did you evidence a proactive/ reactive response; what was the consequence(s) of your choice?
* Note: a concise summary of theory contrasting proactive and reactive behaviour to help guide this section is available at:
Piltz, W & Quinn, D 2005,Being proactive, Working collaboratively, University of South Australia,
https://lo.unisa.edu.au/mod/page/view.php?id=454027>.
Section 2
The second section of the paper involves a review of the key principles and concepts of Choice Theory (Glasser 1998) and a personal reflection using these concepts. Paraphrase and summarise key information and reference appropriately. Information on Choice Theory can be accessed from a number of sources including, but not limited to,those listed below:
Piltz, W & Quinn, D 2005,
Choice theory basics,Working collaboratively, University of South Australia,
https://lo.unisa.edu.au/mod/book/view.php?id=454028>.
Glasser, W 1998,
Choice theory: a new psychology of personal freedom, Harper Collins, New York.
Glasser, W n.d.,
What is Choice Theory?, Glasser Institute for Choice Theory,
https://wglasser.com/what-is-choice-theory/>.
Section 2.1 – Choice Theory(approx. 700 words)
Guideline for sequence and writing - use separate paragraphs for each of the following sections:
- Explain how Choice Theory is based on the concept of ‘internal control’ that emphasises personal responsibility. Describe why it is known as a ‘relationship-based’ theory.
- Explain how the basic needs and quality world provide the key sources of motivation for behaviour.
- Outline how perceptions impact on the way in which a person views the world.
- Explain how the ‘comparing process and balance/ imbalance’ operates as a trigger for changing behaviour.
- Explain the concept of ‘Total Behaviour’ and the relationship between the components (thinking, feeling, acting and physiology).
Section 2.2 – Reflective evaluation(approx. 300 words)
Guideline for sequence and writing - use separate paragraphs for each of the following sections:
- Describe a personal situation where you felt an ‘imbalance’ and explain the imbalance in relation to your ‘quality world and perceived world’.
- Identify your total behaviour at that time: feelings, thinking, actions and physiology.
- Identify the main ‘need’ that is challenged or not fulfilled in this situation.
- Appraise your choice of action and the consequence(s) of the choice on yourself and on others.