Reality testing is a concept initially devised by Sigmund Freud which is used by some therapists to assist clients in distinguishing their internal thoughts, feelings and ideas from the events, which are based within reality. In other words, it is the ability to see a situation for what it really is, rather than what one hopes or fears it might be. However the need for reality testing extends beyond a therapeutic setting and the need to appropriately distinguish our inner world from reality is something, which occurs in everyday life. Below are some examples of this.

Example

"I just said good morning to Jane in the hall this morning, but she didn_'t answer._ She must be mad at me for something I have done_."_

Reality

There may be many other explanations for this. She didn't see you, she was deep in thought or she is grumpy today and has a lot on her mind.

Example

"I just failed my first exam of the year. This must mean that I am now bound to fail the rest of my exams as well_."_

Reality

Failing at something initially, does not equate to a pattern of failure, and does not mean that things cannot improve or change in the future.

Why is reality testing important**?**

We all have thoughts and ideas, which can at points feel dominating, controlling or overwhelming and it can be easy for us to imagine the worst-case scenario. During times when we experience feelings and worries at a heightened level, we can begin to think negatively. Here are some reasons that reality testing is important in our everyday lives:

• It allows us to distinguish between what is real and what isn't
• It allows us to judge situations appropriately
• It allows us to notice our own feelings and what they mean
• It gives us a basis of comparison
• It allows us to improve how we react to situations