In Transactional Analysis, which type of transaction is characterized by responses that are directed to a different ego state than the one that sent the message?

In Transactional Analysis, which type of transaction is characterized by responses that are directed to a different ego state than the one that sent the message?

• A. Complementary transactions
• B. Crossed transactions
• C. Ulterior transactions
• D. Transaction

Answer: (B)

Communications in Transactional Analysis rely on ego states—Parent, Adult, and Child—and the expected pattern of response. A complementary transaction happens when the reply comes from the same or an appropriate ego state, keeping the interaction smooth. When the response is directed to a different ego state than the one that sent the message, attunement is lost and the exchange becomes crossed. For example, a message sent from the Adult asking for information, but the reply comes from the Child or the Parent, disrupts the flow and signals a crossed transaction. Ulterior transactions involve a hidden message beyond the overt one, which isn’t the situation described here.

Communications in Transactional Analysis rely on ego states—Parent, Adult, and Child—and the expected pattern of response. A complementary transaction happens when the reply comes from the same or an appropriate ego state, keeping the interaction smooth. When the response is directed to a different ego state than the one that sent the message, attunement is lost and the exchange becomes crossed. For example, a message sent from the Adult asking for information, but the reply comes from the Child or the Parent, disrupts the flow and signals a crossed transaction. Ulterior transactions involve a hidden message beyond the overt one, which isn’t the situation described here.