Script Analysis & Life Positions Flashcards

In transactional analysis, what is a 'life script'?

Answer: An unconscious life plan decided in childhood based on early experiences

A life script is an unconscious life plan made in childhood, reinforced by parents, justified by subsequent events, and culminating in a chosen alternative.

What are the four basic life positions in transactional analysis?

Answer: I'm OK/You're OK; I'm OK/You're Not OK; I'm Not OK/You're OK; I'm Not OK/You're Not OK

The four basic life positions describe fundamental existential stances: I'm OK/You're OK (healthy), I'm OK/You're Not OK (arrogant), I'm Not OK/You're OK (depressive), and I'm Not OK/You're Not OK (futile).

What is the 'script matrix' used for in TA?

Answer: Mapping the script messages received from each parent or parental figure

The script matrix is a diagrammatic tool that maps the script messages (injunctions, counterinjunctions, and program) received from each parental figure.

According to Berne, when are most life script decisions made?

Answer: In early childhood, typically before age 7

Berne described script decisions as typically made in early childhood (before age 7) when the child lacks the cognitive tools to evaluate parental messages objectively.

What are 'injunctions' in TA script theory?

Answer: Negative, inhibiting messages received from the parents' Child ego state

Injunctions are negative, restrictive messages that originate from the parents' own Child ego state and inhibit the child's natural development.

What are 'counterinjunctions' (also called 'drivers') in script theory?

Answer: Messages from the Parent ego state that demand certain behaviors to be acceptable

Counterinjunctions, or drivers, are demanding messages from the parents' Parent ego state that prescribe behaviors ('be perfect,' 'try hard,' 'hurry up') the child must exhibit to gain acceptance.