Transaction Analysis: Definition, History, Characteristics and Further Reading
Transaction Analysis (TA) is a psychotherapeutic approach that analyzes interpersonal behavior in terms of transactions between two people. Developed by Eric Berne in the 1950s, the theory has been used for personal growth, psychotherapy, and organizational training.
Definition
Transaction Analysis (TA) is a psychological theory that is used to analyze communication between people. It is based on the idea that people interact and communicate with each other through transactions. A transaction is defined as any verbal or nonverbal communication between two people. By analyzing the transactions that occur between two people, it is possible to understand the underlying dynamics of their relationship.
History
Transaction Analysis was developed by Eric Berne in the 1950s. Berne was a Canadian-born psychiatrist who practiced psychotherapy in the United States. He created the theory to help people better understand themselves and others in terms of how they communicate. He believed that understanding the dynamics of communication between two people was essential to improving relationships.
Characteristics
Transaction Analysis is based on the idea that people have three distinct parts of the ego: the Parent, the Adult, and the Child. Each of these parts of the ego has its own set of attitudes and behaviors that it adopts in different situations. Through analyzing transactions, it is possible to identify which part of the ego is dominant in a particular situation.
Transaction Analysis also emphasizes the importance of understanding the dynamics of communication. It suggests that communication is a two-way process that requires both parties to be actively engaged in the conversation. By understanding the dynamics of communication, it is possible to improve relationships and create deeper understanding between two people.
Further Reading
Berne, E. (1964). Transactional analysis in psychotherapy. New York, NY: Grove Press.
Erskine, R. G., & Trautmann, R. L. (Eds.). (2014). Handbook of transactional analysis. London: Routledge.
Stewart, I., & Joines, V. (1987). TA today: A new introduction to transactional analysis. Nottingham: Lifespace Publishing.
Thomas, A. (2013). Transactional Analysis: 101. London: Routledge.