Transactional analysis as a foundation for understanding personality in coaching

Abstract

This review of Karen Pratt’s book Transactional Analysis Coaching: Distinctive Features examines a new conceptual approach proposed by the author. Coaches are invited to use transactional analysis as the primary framework for understanding personality, life script, and behavioral patterns, and to apply coaching tools within this system rather than adding TA as an additional layer to coaching. The reviewer highlights the book’s strong practical orientation, including vivid examples of transactions, ready-to-use wording for contracting, and analyses of dialogues illustrating how a coach may unconsciously shift into a Parent position. Particular attention is given to the value of the section on script analysis and to the “script triangle” technique, which enables practitioners to identify unconscious obstacles gently, without shifting into therapy. The book is noted for its concise and accessible presentation, as well as its extensive use of diagrams and tables, which make it a ready-to-use guide for practitioners. The reviewer also shares her personal experience, noting that the book helped her formulate TA ideas more succinctly for professional social media. Although working with acute emotional states is not among the book’s aims, it is nevertheless regarded as a valuable resource for psychologists, coaches, and other helping professionals.