Understanding Transactions in Transactional Analysis: A Key to Effective Communication
Transactional Analysis (TA), was developed by psychologist Eric Berne in the 1950s, it is a psychological framework that explores human interactions, helping individuals understand the way they communicate and relate to others.
One of the core concepts in TA is the idea of “transactions”. This is the exchanges we have with others, both verbal and non-verbal. By understanding the different types of transactions, we can gain valuable insights into our communication patterns, improve our relationships, and develop healthier, more productive interactions.
What Are the Transactions in Transactional Analysis?
In TA, a “transaction” refers to any communication exchange between two or more people. These exchanges can occur on various levels: verbal, non-verbal, conscious, or unconscious. A transaction involves a stimulus (the message one person sends) and a response (the message the other person gives in return).
The quality of these transactions are influenced by the state of mind that both individuals are operating from, in TA we call these states of minds Ego States, specifically, the Parent, Adult, and Child Ego states, which are fundamental to concepts in TA.
- Parent: This state reflects the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours we’ve absorbed from authority figures during our upbringing. The Parent can be either nurturing and caring or critical and controlling.
- Adult: The Adult state is rational, logical, and objective. It’s the part of us that processes information and responds to situations based on facts rather than emotions or past experiences.
- Child: The Child state embodies our emotions, instincts, and creativity. It’s the source of spontaneity, playfulness, and, at times, emotional reactions from childhood.
Types of Transactions: Complementary, Crossed, and Ulterior
Berne identified three primary types of transactions, each of which plays a significant role in how communication flows between individuals.
1. Complementary Transactions
In a complementary transaction, both parties communicate from compatible ego states. For example, when one person speaks from their “Adult” and the other responds from their “Adult”, the exchange is logical and balanced. Similarly, if one person takes on the “Parent” role (offering advice or guidance, for example), and the other responds as the “Child” (gratefully accepting the advice), the transaction remains complementary. These types of transactions are typically harmonious and result in smooth communication.
Example:
Person A (Adult): "Can we meet tomorrow to discuss the project?"
Person B (Adult): "Yes, that works for me."
2. Crossed Transactions
A crossed transaction occurs when one person communicates from one Ego state, but the other responds from a different and incompatible state. This can lead to confusion, frustration, and conflict. For example, if one person communicates from their “Adult” state and the other responds from their “Child” state, the conversation might become emotional or defensive instead of rational.
Example:
Person A (Adult): "Let's focus on the facts and discuss how we can move forward."
Person B (Child): "I can’t believe you're being so harsh! Why are you attacking me?"
In this case, Person A’s rational approach triggers an emotional response from Person B, leading to a breakdown in communication.
3. Ulterior Transactions
Ulterior transactions occur when there are hidden or double messages. While the surface-level communication might appear straightforward, there’s an underlying, often unconscious, message being sent from a different ego state. This can lead to confusion and a lack of clarity in communication.
Example:
Person A (Parent): "You should really try to be more organised."
Person B (Child): "I’ll try, but it’s hard."
While the surface-level conversation might seem like advice, the Parent state in Person A might be subtly controlling, while Person B’s response might reflect a passive resistance from their Child state.
Improving Communication Through Transactional Analysis
Understanding transactions in TA can offer valuable insights into the way we interact and help us navigate communication more effectively. By being aware of which Ego state we are operating from—and recognising the state of the person we’re communicating with—we can adjust our approach to ensure smoother, more constructive exchanges.
For example, if we notice that our conversation is becoming emotional or defensive (a crossed transaction), we can consciously shift to a more rational and neutral “Adult” state to restore balance. Similarly, if we recognise that our communication might be carrying hidden messages (ulterior transactions), we can work to make our intentions clear and avoid misunderstandings.
In the workplace, family life, or personal relationships, understanding TA transactions can help us communicate with more awareness, empathy, and respect. By recognising our own patterns and the dynamics at play, we can create more open and effective dialogues, develope stronger connections and reducing conflict.
Ultimately, Transactional Analysis offers a powerful lens for improving communication by encouraging us to be more mindful of how we relate to others and how we can better align our interactions for mutual understanding and growth.
