choice theory

noun

Any of various models of group behavior (such as economic behavior, criminal behavior, or consumer behavior) as the cumulative result of rational choices made by individuals expressing on their preferences and/or meeting their needs.

Meanings

nounchoice theory (usually uncountable, plural choice theories)

plural choice theories

  1. uncountableusuallyhuman sciencesAny of various models of group behavior (such as economic behavior, criminal behavior, or consumer behavior) as the cumulative result of rational choices made by individuals expressing on their preferences and/or meeting their needs.
  2. uncountableusuallyA body of work, originating with Dr. William Glasser in 1995, an extension of his 'reality therapy' that posits and explains human behavior as living organisms' satisfying genetic needs for survival, connecting and belonging, power, freedom and fun.
Cite this entry
APA

choice theory. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 4, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/choice%20theory

MLA

“choice theory.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/choice%20theory. Accessed November 4, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “choice theory,” accessed November 4, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/choice%20theory.

Source: choice theory on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.