Understanding Second-Order Structure and Functioning

Abstract

Understanding second-order ego state structure and functioning in transactional analysis can be difficult. In this article, the author draws on his 40 years of clinical experience to help clarify these aspects of TA as well as to offer some new insights. Jacqui Schiff postulated that ego states are neural networks of associated responses. The author suggests that these networks form ego state structures that operate partly consciously and partly unconsciously. The conscious part is observable as distinct ego states, and through further investigation, the operation of unconscious parts, which can be thought of as ego state relational units (Little, 2006; Joines, 1977), can be discovered as well. The structure of the psyche is divided into a natural part that wants to grow and develop spontaneously and an adapted part that tries to protect the individual from further hurt by holding him or her back and maintaining his or her survival script. The positive intent of this latter part is often overlooked because it causes additional difficulty in the individual’s present life. Appreciating and working with this part facilitates discovering new ways to both grow and protect oneself in the present.