Conceptualizing happiness using choice theory

• Main Authors: Mateo, Niño Jose C., Datu, Jesus Alfonso D.
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2012
• Subjects: Psychology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/faculty_research/12248
• Institution: De La Salle University

This study looks at the basic needs that are predictive of happiness based on the choice theory approach to counseling and psychotherapy (Glasser, 1998). Two hundred college students (n=200) form a private university in Metro Manila answered the Choice Theory Rating Scale and Subjective Happiness Scale. It utilized descriptive-predictive research design in identifying basic needs that lead the respondents to a positive and joyous state. Results revealed that the needs for love and belongingness (r=.29,p<.01), and need for fun and enjoyment (r=19<.05) were found to be significantly associated to happiness. Basic needs account for 10.7% of the variance in happiness while the need for love and belongingness (B=.23, p<.05) is the lone variable which significantly predicted inclination of the respondents to experience subjective well-being. Implications of the findings to the respondents and counseling service were discussed.