Interaction Styles Things-in-Common

Adapted from Linda V. Berens, Understanding Yourself and Others®: An Introduction to Interaction Styles 2.0 (Telos Publications, 2008) *Used with permission.

We often relate to more than one interaction style pattern because each pattern has something in common with the others. These things-in-common reveal themselves in the interactions between people, especially in our communications. As you try to sort out which interaction style is the most natural fit for you, you may identify a preference for one or the other of the dynamics that are at play when people interact. These dynamics are

Directing versus Informing communications-ways we influence others
Initiating versus Responding roles-ways to define relationships
Control versus Movement focus-where we focus our attention when interacting

These dynamics are always operating in a situation, and if we become polarized along these dimensions as we interact with others, miscommunication and misunderstanding are probable and likely to result in destructive conflict. However, we need to remember that we always have at least one aspect in common with someone of a different interaction style.

In-Charge™ & Chart-the-Course™ have in common *Directing communications*-Task/time focus, Give structure, direct	Get-Things-Going™ & Behind-the-Scenes™ have in common *Informing communications*- Process/motivation focus, evoke, draw forth, inspire, seek input
In-Charge™ & Get-Things-Going™ have in common *Initiating roles* -impatient with slow pace	Chart-the-Course™ & Behind-the-Scenes™ have in common *Responding roles* -pressured by a fast pace
In-Charge™ & Behind-the-Scenes™ have in common *Control focus* -focus on control over the outcome	Get-Things-Going™ & Chart-the-Course™ have in common *Movement focus* -focus on movement toward the goal

Read about; History of Interaction Styles