Author Archives: RealityCheck

Behavioural Choices and Learning

Last column, I introduced the learning challenges of Suzi and Simon. Suzi used to perceive learning as fun until that day when she missed the introduction to algebraic equations. Now, she fears that she’s lost that and every future math … Continue reading

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Learning, Power, and Fun…

“Fun is the genetic reward for learning,” according to Dr. Wm. Glasser in his book, Choice Theory. Glasser connects play and fun to learning through his theory that the need for fun was built into our genes as a reward … Continue reading

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The Most Wonderful Time…

Is this the most wonderful time of the year? Or is it…the most dreadful time? I’m referring to the new school year, of course. While I’m sure that most students are filled with excitement and anticipation, 

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What would make it possible?

Advertising is a fascinating field. Its usual purpose is to persuade us to do something we might not do otherwise. Often, the goal is to sell, but there can be other goals, too. Advertisers may try to convince us to … Continue reading

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Everybody’s still picking on Johnny

Firmly fixed in Johnny’s mind is the idea that life is unfair. More specifically, life is unfair to him. Whether it’s at work, with his parents, his teachers, even with his friends, Johnny often feels as if he is under … Continue reading

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Everybody picks on Johnny, part 2

Johnny feels picked on. He is sure that he is treated unfairly compared to others. Even worse, he is convinced that it’s the story of his entire life. When I introduced Johnny in an earlier column, I suggested that he … Continue reading

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Everybody Picks on Johnny

“I’d do anything for my child.” If you’re a mom or dad, and even if you aren’t, you can understand that sentiment. You already know that some children, and even some adults, seem to be “picked on” more than others. … Continue reading

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Rain or Shine, Choose to have a good time

We Maritimers have something in common; we’re always aware of the weather. When the sun shines and the birds are singing, everyone smiles; when it’s a (rare) dull, dreary day, it’s common for folks to feel dull and dreary too. … Continue reading

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Wherever you go, there you are

We all need others to some degree. In reality therapy, that’s referred to as the need for love and belonging. Our lives are more satisfying when we can spend time with people we care about. However, there are benefits to … Continue reading

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The Unspoken Bargain

Have you ever entered into a bargain without realizing it? Alice did, and now she’s getting a daily dose of frustration from an arrangement she thought would be to her benefit. Here’s her story. 

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