Identification of Ego States in Transactional Analysis as a Function of Intelligence,Professional Training,and Psychodynamic Factors

Abstract

Berne stated the identification of ego states “does not depend on either professional training or intellectual level but rather on psychodynamic factors.” This study tested three hypotheses: 1) professional training, 2) intelligence, and 3) psychodynamic factors are positively related to identifying Parent, Adult and Child ego states. Results of ego state identification test showed subjects higher ranked in professional training, grade point average, and I.Q. had significantly higher ego state scores than lower ranked subjects. Those with personality factors—“introversion” and “tender-minded emotionality” had significantly higher ego state scores than those with opposite traits—“extroversion” and “tough poise.”