Transactional Analysis: Theory of Communication
Peter Conner Student no. 233071 BTEC Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling Unit 5: Transactional Analysis
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1.1 The main theories that underpin Transactional Analysis in relation to counseling are: 1. Theory of communication. This can be applied when analyzing systems and organizations. It can be applied when working in or on, for example, a company studying the way the workforce and management communicate (or not). If all members of the company are willing to undergo scrutiny and analysis (not necessarily on a deep, personal level) become aware of ‘faults’ in their lines of communication and learn to alter limiting behaviours great progress can be made in the efficiency of the company, not only on a business efficiency level but also on a personal satisfaction or ‘happiness’ level. I have worked with business coaches and seen how this can work really well. Most organizations, corporate or otherwise, tend to operate a ‘top down’ management structure which seems to be based on fear (of those at the bottom losing their job) and control (from those at the top believing they have to keep a firm hand on the reins or staff will take advantage). The most efficient (and happy) workforces I have seen tend to be led by very enlightened and ‘hands off’ employers who are confident enough to let their employees have some autonomy. When most companies are ‘audited’ by business coaches the most frequent complaint is lack of communication. I think that probably means misunderstood, ‘contaminated’ or ‘crossed’ communication? The phrase ‘crossed wires’ is in regular usage! The need to be heard and understood by others and the skills to be able to hear and understand others seem to be paramount in maintaining trust and respect both of oneself and others, in whatever setting that is. 2. Theory of personality By using a three-part model known as the ego-state model TA can provide a structured analysis of how we function and behave. The three ego states are:
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1.1 The main theories that underpin Transactional Analysis in relation to counseling are: 1. Theory of communication. This can be applied when analyzing systems and organizations. It can be applied when working in or on, for example, a company studying the way the workforce and management communicate (or not). If all members of the company are willing to undergo scrutiny and analysis (not necessarily on a deep, personal level) become aware of ‘faults’ in their lines of communication and learn to alter limiting behaviours great progress can be made in the efficiency of the company, not only on a business efficiency level but also on a personal satisfaction or ‘happiness’ level. I have worked with business coaches and seen how this can work really well. Most organizations, corporate or otherwise, tend to operate a ‘top down’ management structure which seems to be based on fear (of those at the bottom losing their job) and control (from those at the top believing they have to keep a firm hand on the reins or staff will take advantage). The most efficient (and happy) workforces I have seen tend to be led by very enlightened and ‘hands off’ employers who are confident enough to let their employees have some autonomy. When most companies are ‘audited’ by business coaches the most frequent complaint is lack of communication. I think that probably means misunderstood, ‘contaminated’ or ‘crossed’ communication? The phrase ‘crossed wires’ is in regular usage! The need to be heard and understood by others and the skills to be able to hear and understand others seem to be paramount in maintaining trust and respect both of oneself and others, in whatever setting that is. 2. Theory of personality By using a three-part model known as the ego-state model TA can provide a structured analysis of how we function and behave. The three ego states are: