Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation (FIRO) is a psychological theory developed by Will Schutz in the 1950s that describes and explains interpersonal behavior. It is based on the notion that humans have basic needs for inclusion, control, and affection which, when fulfilled, result in successful interpersonal relationships. The theory is useful for understanding individual behavior in relationships, teams, and organizations, and has been applied to management and leadership theory.
Definition
Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation (FIRO) is a psychological theory developed by Will Schutz in the 1950s that describes and explains interpersonal behavior. It is based on the notion that humans have basic needs for inclusion, control, and affection which, when fulfilled, result in successful interpersonal relationships. The theory states that people have distinct interpersonal needs that affect their behavior and relationships. These needs are expressed in three dimensions: inclusion, control, and affection. The theory suggests that these needs are universal, and that an individual’s behavior can be understood in terms of their need for inclusion, control, and affection.
History
The FIRO theory was developed by psychologist Will Schutz in the 1950s. Schutz was interested in understanding interpersonal behavior, and developed the theory as a way of explaining how people interact. He proposed that humans have three basic needs that affect their behavior: inclusion, control, and affection. He argued that these needs are universal, and that understanding them can help us to better understand individual behavior and interpersonal relationships.
Characteristics
The FIRO theory proposes that humans have three basic needs: inclusion, control, and affection. The need for inclusion is the need to be accepted and included in a group or relationship. The need for control is the need to have influence and autonomy over one’s environment. The need for affection is the need to be loved and cared for. These needs are expressed in three dimensions: expressiveness, openness, and responsiveness. Expressiveness is the degree to which an individual expresses their needs for inclusion, control, and affection. Openness is the degree to which an individual is willing to accept and accommodate the needs of others. Responsiveness is the degree to which an individual is willing to respond to the needs of others.
The theory posits that fulfilling these needs leads to successful interpersonal relationships. It suggests that understanding the needs of oneself and others can help to foster better relationships and lead to more successful interactions.
Farther Reading
Herrick, J. A., & Schutz, W. C. (2008). An introduction to the FIRO theory of interpersonal relations. The Family Journal, 16(1), 65-71.
Friedlander, M. L., & Schutz, W. C. (1977). The construction and validation of FIRO-B, a measure of interpersonal needs. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 45(1), 133–142.
Schutz, W. C. (1990). FIRO: A three-dimensional theory of interpersonal behavior. New York, NY: Holt, Rinehart and Winston.