Transactional Analysis and Spirituality

Abstract

In the Indian philosophical system Vedanta, the composite human being is described in terms of five concentric sheaths surrounding an inner core - the Pancha Kosha (Five Sheaths) model. This model has implications for the discipline of Transactional Analysis insofar as it sheds light on the working of the Adult Ego State and also suggests the process by which autonomy can be achieved. Other concepts of Vedanta relevant to TA are discussed and elaborated, and a Vedantic Ego States Model presented incorporating them into the Classical TA model. The natural longing for intimacy and the growth force of physis are represented in terms of insights from Vedanta. The practice implications of the model are discussed, and also how it can help for personal growth and eventually spiritual progress.

Keywords

• ego states
• cultural parent
• autonomy
• integrating adult
• physis
• mindfulness
• pancha kosha
• yoga
• yama
• niyama
• shreyas
• rin
• purushartha
• bhakti yoga
• brahman
• upanishads
• bhagavad gita
• dharma
• moksha
• karma
• integrated adult
• atman
• vedanta