Reality tested
Reality testing is the practice of checking whether one's thoughts, emotions, and interpretations match the available facts.
Definition
Reality testing helps distinguish fact from interpretation, fear from data, and impulse from real need. In development practice, it is a tool for critical thinking and self-regulation. In a clinical context, reality testing disorders may require professional help and should not be used as a substitute for diagnosis.
Key ideas
- Facts versus interpretations
- Data checking
- Correction of thinking
Practice and life
When a strong thought occurs, write down three columns: fact, interpretation, evidence. Only then decide whether the reaction is adequate.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to consider every emotion as evidence of reality. It is also a mistake to use fact-testing to suppress feelings instead of sorting them out.
> Mature thought is checked against facts even before the interpretation is called truth.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What is fact and what is my interpretation?
- What evidence do I have for and against?
- Does my reaction match the data?