Transactional Analysis Analysis Essay Example
Transactional Analysis Analysis Essay Example

Transactional Analysis Analysis Essay Example

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What is Transactional Analysis?

Transactional Analysis, originally created by Eric Berne in the 1950s, remains relevant and popular as a communication model in the 21st century. Berne proposed that individuals have three fundamental states of mind - the 'Parent', the 'Adult', and the 'Child' - which are utilized during interactions.

Transactional Analysis aids in enhancing interpersonal relationships and has been strongly endorsed by me for many years. I discovered this model in the early 1980s, and its effectiveness has not waned.

Throughout our life, we have developed states in our subconscious mind that our conscious mind can call upon in the present. Among these states are the 'Parent' and 'Child' states.

Parent

The 'Parent' state of mind is influenced by external events during early childhood. It encompasses lessons learned from authority figures such as paren

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ts, grandparents, older siblings, and teachers. Have you ever noticed yourself using phrases like "I sound just like my mother" or "I sound just like my father" when you hear yourself using the exact words they used to say? These words stem from the external influences stored within your internal 'Parent' state.

Child

The 'Child' state of mind originates from personal experiences as a child.

All young children naturally react to their environment, expressing hunger through crying, happiness through gurgling and laughter, and tiredness through sleep. Our inner 'Child' houses our emotions and instinctive responses. As time passes, our inner 'Child' adjusts to the world we inhabit, learning that instinctive reactions are not always suitable. For example, it recognizes that touching a beautiful yellow flame causes pain. Thus, our inner 'Child' not only retains emotional and instinctive traits but also holds adapted behavior,

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which it may not always prefer.

Adult

As we grow older, we come to realize that our parents were not always correct. This realization prompts us to question the teachings imparted by them, leading to the development of our 'Adult' mindset. Having an 'Adult' mentality enables us to think independently and make decisions based on the available information, without being influenced by our 'Parent' or 'Child' mental states. Understanding these various mental states significantly impacts how we communicate with others. We can access our own mental states during communication, while also acknowledging that the individuals we interact with can do the same.

When someone assumes their 'Parent' state, they may attempt to exert control or provide guidance through instructions. If the other person is in their 'Child' state, they might comply with these instructions either willingly or reluctantly. However, if compliance occurs reluctantly, it may lead to unforeseen outcomes as they could potentially sabotage results or fail to give their undivided attention to the task at hand.

If individuals are in their 'Parent' state, they may respond defiantly, thinking "who are you to dictate what I should do!?" If they are in their 'Adult' state, they may have their own perspective on the necessary actions. This can result in heated arguments where neither party achieves the desired outcome.

On the other hand, if we approach interactions from a 'Child' standpoint, we seek approval, support, or guidance on what to do. If the other person is in their 'Parent' state, they might provide us with what we seek or simply tell us to figure it out ourselves. If they are in a 'Child' state, they may respond uncertainly

and claim not to know the answer. In either case, we leave without a satisfactory outcome.

However, if individuals are in their 'Adult' state of mind during communication exchanges, they might take the time to understand the problem and offer assistance. The only uncertainty lies in not knowing which mindset others possess when approached.

This leaves us with just a 33% chance of receiving help. It becomes evident that approaching communications from an 'Adult' perspective is the most suitable approach.

This text examines the impact of different states of mind on interactions and outcomes in work and personal situations. While it is generally advantageous to operate in an "Adult" state, characterized by attentiveness and appropriate questioning for obtaining relevant information, it is essential to acknowledge that the "Parent" and "Child" states can also be applicable in certain circumstances. By consistently remaining in an "Adult" state, there is a greater likelihood of influencing the other individual to adopt an "Adult" mindset as well, resulting in positive results. This approach enables suggesting options or solutions based on a thorough comprehension of the situation or gaining diverse perspectives from the other person. Moreover, this mindset fosters the establishment of a mutually gratifying relationship built upon respect and trust.

Transactional Analysis is a valuable tool that can be applied in any situation. It provides clarity on the current circumstances and empowers individuals to respond positively, thereby enhancing communication skills and fostering healthier relationships. However, this brief introduction only scratches the surface of Transactional Analysis as its theory and applications are much more extensive and intricate. If you wish to delve deeper into this subject, there are numerous resources available for further exploration.

Sue Porter

is a consultant who specializes in assisting clients with improving both individual and organizational performance.

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