Reading Nook

Theories are a set of ideas used to understand or explain something. They are a framework through which we can seek understanding, or a foundation upon which we can build our own story.

Thortify’s workbooks help you to apply some social theory to your every day life. There are many other interesting theories to choose from, here we outline just a few.

Use your own experiences and thoughts to explore these subjects in your own way. Embrace your curiosity and see where it leads.

Social theory snapshot

  • Theory by Stephen Covey

    The Circle of Control theory reminds us to focus on the things within our life that we can control or influence. It also helps us to acknowledge the things that are out of our control. Taking a moment to remind ourselves of the things we can actively influence helps us to deal with feelings of overwhelm, particularly during periods of crisis or anxiety.

  • Theory by James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente

    This theory depicts the process of change as a cycle, with different steps and processes involved at each stage of change. Using this theory helps us to see how changes we have made in the past have affected us but also what we might need to make further changes.

  • Theory by Karl Ludwig von Bertalanffy and others

    This theory helps us to view our lives as a system of interconnected elements. What is working well in your system? How do the different elements interact? Can you think of ways to simplify your 'life system'? What does your system look like?

  • Theory by Eric Berne

    This theory invites us to understand the different elements of our personality and to explore the interactions within our relationships with others. Transactional Analysis encourages the analysis of underlying emotions and how they feed our behaviour.

  • Theory by Albert Bandura

    This theory focuses on the way we learn from others by watching, copying and testing out the different behaviours of those around us. It can be interesting to explore our cultural and normative behaviours through this lens, is this where our traditions and customs come from?

  • Theory by Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham

    This theory invites us to explore the different areas of ourselves and how they affect our relationships with others. Exploring our own perceptions and comparing them with others can build trust and increase self awareness, ultimately strengthening our relationships.

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