FAQ

This common wisdom is the definition of an Ulterior Transaction. This type of transaction involves two messages sent simultaneously:

• The Social Level (What You Say): The overt, conscious message (e.g., Adult ⇒ Adult). This is the content of the words.
• Example: "Do you know where the stapler is?" (Adult asking for a fact).
• The Psychological Level (How You Say It): The covert, unconscious message, often conveyed through tone of voice, body language, or facial expression (e.g., Parent ⇒ Child). This is the real agenda.
• Example (Tone): "Can you finally get me that stapler?" (Parent implying incompetence).

In TA, the rule is simple: The Psychological Message always wins. The receiver's Child Ego State reacts to the tone (the how), not the words (the what). This dynamic is crucial because all Psychological Games (like "Why Don't You—Yes But") start with an Ulterior Transaction.

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