Ego State Role-Play Session: Interaction Analysis
Scenario:
During a recent meeting with a manager, I presented my financial analysis and projections for
a client portfolio. The meeting became a bit tense when my manager questioned some of my
assumptions. Below is the analysis of the communication exchange using Transactional
Analysis (TA) theory, which identifies "Ego States" (Parent, Adult, Child).
Interaction:
1. Me (Adult Ego State): I started the conversation by presenting my analysis
objectively, explaining the methodology and data used to forecast future portfolio
performance. My approach was calm, fact-based, and logical, reflecting the Adult ego
state, which is rational and focused on problem-solving.
o "Based on the current trends and historical data, I project a 5% growth in this
sector over the next quarter. Here are the underlying assumptions that support
this forecast."
2. Manager (Parent Ego State): My manager responded in a slightly critical tone,
questioning my assumptions without requesting further clarification. This reflected a
Critical Parent ego state, which can be judgmental or authoritative. While not
aggressive, the tone felt controlling.
o "I don’t think your assumptions about market recovery are realistic. You
should have been more conservative in this analysis."
3. Me (Child Ego State): Initially, I felt slightly defensive and responded in a way that
reflected the Adapted Child ego state. I became less assertive and sought approval,
second-guessing my work to meet my manager's expectations.
o "I understand your concern. Maybe I should rework some of the assumptions
to be more conservative."
4. Manager (Adult Ego State): After sensing the defensiveness in my response, my
manager shifted back to the Adult ego state, adopting a more collaborative approach.
He suggested further review of the assumptions with a more open mindset, which
helped bring the conversation back to problem-solving.
o "Let’s look at the data together and see if there's a more balanced approach we
can take. I’m not dismissing your analysis, but we need to ensure it’s aligned
with our risk outlook."
5. Me (Adult Ego State): I regained composure and re-entered the Adult state, moving
from seeking approval to objectively discussing the data. The conversation shifted
into a productive discussion focused on improving the analysis.
o "That makes sense. We can incorporate a more conservative scenario into the
model and see how it affects the overall projection."
Dominant Ego States:
Parent Ego State (Manager): The manager initially adopted a Critical Parent stance,
questioning my analysis and challenging assumptions in a controlling manner.
However, he eventually transitioned into an Adult state, leading to a more productive
conversation.
Adult Ego State (Me): I began in the Adult state, presenting data logically. However,
I briefly slipped into the Child state when I sought approval and validation after the
criticism. I quickly returned to the Adult state to re-engage in a constructive
conversation.
Impact of Ego States on the Conversation:
The Critical Parent state created tension and made the conversation initially
defensive, as it pushed me into the Child state, where I felt the need to seek approval
rather than discuss facts rationally.
The Adult-Adult exchange that followed allowed for a more productive and
collaborative discussion, with both parties focusing on the issue at hand rather than
personal judgments or emotional responses.
Analysis: How Understanding Ego States Can Improve Professional
Relationships
Understanding ego states in professional interactions is crucial for fostering healthy
communication and avoiding unnecessary conflict. In this scenario, recognizing the shifts
between Parent, Adult, and Child states helped illuminate why the conversation became
momentarily tense and how it was steered back to productivity.
In future interactions, this understanding can help me identify when a colleague or manager is
in a Critical Parent state and avoid slipping into a Child response. By consciously remaining
in the Adult state, I can maintain a logical, objective tone and steer the conversation towards
collaboration rather than conflict. Furthermore, recognizing when others are in a Child or
Parent state allows me to respond empathetically and guide the conversation in a way that
encourages mutual problem-solving.
In conclusion, mastering the awareness of ego states in communication not only improves the
flow of dialogue but also strengthens relationships by reducing misunderstandings, fostering
mutual respect, and creating an atmosphere of collaboration and growth. This approach builds
trust, a key asset in any professional environment.
