Transactional analysis analyzes communication patterns in human relationships based on ego states. Through this, individuals can recognize their own behaviors and attitudes, improve interactions with others, and achieve smoother communication.
Transactional analysis analyzes communication patterns in human relationships based on the concept of ego states. In other words, Transactional Analysis can be described as research aimed at making human communication more effective. In modern society, communication plays a crucial role in understanding and coordinating interactions between individuals and groups. Especially in today’s environment, where people with diverse backgrounds and experiences work and live together, the importance of communication is further emphasized. Through Transactional Analysis, individuals can recognize their communication patterns, predict others’ reactions, and develop more effective communication strategies. This analysis enhances the ability of communication participants to recognize and understand both their own and others’ behaviors and attitudes. The fundamental methods of transactional analysis are ego state analysis and communication analysis.
Eric Berne posited that individuals employ three ego states depending on their needs and the situation, referred to as the Parent ego state, Adult ego state, and Child ego state. The ego structure analysis stage focuses on the content and function of these three ego states. The Parent ego state is the state where one adopts a caring or teaching attitude towards oneself or others. The Adult ego state is an objective and rational ego state. In contrast, the Child ego state is immature and self-centered.
To deepen understanding of ego states, the Parent ego state is further subdivided into two parts. The Nurturing Parent manifests as a caring and considerate attitude, encompassing warm and accepting behavior. Conversely, the Critical Parent manifests as an attitude that enforces rules and criticizes. The Adult ego state primarily emphasizes realistic information processing and problem-solving, which includes the ability to objectively assess the current situation without being influenced by subjective emotions or past experiences. The Child ego state naturally divides into two parts. The Free Child ego state exhibits creative and spontaneous behavior, while the Compliant Child ego state manifests an attitude of trying to meet others’ expectations.
In the transactional analysis stage, practice is done to represent the interactions between the analyzed ego states with arrows. Communication begins from the Parent ego state when the message is protective or critical; from the Adult ego state when judging matters based on facts or conveying information to the other person dispassionately; and from the Child ego state when responding emotionally or impulsively, or conversely, when trying not to hurt the other person’s feelings. Meanwhile, the content of these communications is directed as follows: seeking support or assistance from the other person is directed to the Parent ego state; requesting or conveying facts or information to the other person, or demanding rational judgment based on reason, is directed to the Adult ego state; stimulating the other person’s emotions, appealing to their feelings, or treating the other person as weak is directed to the Child ego state. Through this analysis, one can observe their response patterns toward others and gradually gain conscious control over unproductive communication methods. Any communication occurring in a given situation falls into one of three categories: complementary, cross, or subliminal.
Complementary exchange occurs when your ego state responds as desired to a stimulus sent by the other person’s ego state. That is, it is an exchange where your three ego states and the other person’s three ego states form parallel lines that satisfy each other’s needs. This exchange continues because recognition or soothing are complementary to each other. Crossed exchange is an exchange of responses that arise when the other person’s desired needs are ignored or misunderstood. When you receive an unwanted response, you will feel flustered. Conversation must be conducted by discerning the other person’s needs. Ignoring the other person’s needs and giving an irrelevant response causes the conversation to break down. Subliminal communication refers to an exchange where a double message is conveyed simultaneously. It is an exchange where a psychological intent lies beneath socially acceptable communication, corresponding to a situation where the conversationalist sends a double message. It also differs from complementary and cross transactions in that two ego states are involved simultaneously.
The usefulness of transactional analysis is particularly evident in everyday human relationships. For example, when resolving conflicts among family members or improving workplace communication, transactional analysis can facilitate positive interactions by helping individuals understand their respective ego states and elicit appropriate responses. Furthermore, in educational settings, transactional analysis can contribute to smoother communication between teachers and students, thereby enhancing learning outcomes. Moreover, transactional analysis seeks to identify and modify problematic interpersonal patterns by explaining why dysfunctional relationship patterns emerge and recur. These issues are not fixed once formed; they can be changed through effort.
In conclusion, transactional analysis is a vital tool for understanding and improving the dynamics of human relationships. Through it, we can recognize our own behaviors and make interactions with others more positive and productive. This analysis will enhance the quality of life for individuals and, furthermore, contribute to improving the overall communication culture within society. Transactional Analysis transcends mere theory, demonstrating its value as a practical methodology applicable to real life. As a key to resolving the complexities of human relationships, it helps individuals and groups achieve healthier, more harmonious interactions.
