CTA - Certified Transactional Analyst — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is 'exclusion' in ego state theory?

A script decision
A type of crossed transaction
When one ego state chronically blocks others from being expressed (Correct answer)
Refusing to give strokes

Correct answer: When one ego state chronically blocks others from being expressed

Exclusion occurs when one ego state chronically dominates and blocks the expression of other ego states.

Question 2: Which ego state is activated when a person re-experiences childhood feelings, thoughts, and behaviors?

Nurturing Parent
Adult
Child (Correct answer)
Parent

Correct answer: Child

The Child ego state is activated when a person re-experiences feelings, thoughts, and behaviors from childhood.

Question 3: What does the 'switch' in Berne's game formula refer to?

Changing therapists
The sudden role reversal that surprises the players near the game's end (Correct answer)
Changing the therapeutic contract
Switching ego states intentionally

Correct answer: The sudden role reversal that surprises the players near the game's end

The switch is the moment when the game initiator suddenly reverses their role or behavior, leaving the respondent confused and setting up the final payoff.

Question 4: What is a 'script decision' in transactional analysis?

A conclusion a child makes about themselves and the world in response to early experiences (Correct answer)
A client's decision to enter therapy
A therapist's treatment plan decision
A legal term in TA

Correct answer: A conclusion a child makes about themselves and the world in response to early experiences

A script decision is a conclusion the child makes about themselves, others, and the world in response to early experiences, especially in the presence of injunctions.

Question 5: Script decisions interfere most directly with which component of autonomy?

Intelligence
Empathic capacity
Verbal communication
Spontaneity (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Spontaneity

Scripts restrict the range of responses available to a person, directly limiting spontaneity by constraining which ego states can be accessed freely.

Question 6: In TA, what is 'stroke filtering'?

A technique for giving effective strokes
The tendency to dismiss or distort strokes that do not fit one's self-concept (Correct answer)
Screening clients for therapy
A form of active listening

Correct answer: The tendency to dismiss or distort strokes that do not fit one's self-concept

Stroke filtering is the tendency to discount, distort, or reject strokes that are inconsistent with one's script and self-concept, maintaining the familiar self-image.

Question 7: What is 'consent' in the context of TA therapeutic contracts?

The client's informed, voluntary agreement to the therapeutic goals and methods (Correct answer)
Permission to share information with insurers
Only relevant for physical touch techniques
A signature on a form

Correct answer: The client's informed, voluntary agreement to the therapeutic goals and methods

Consent in TA contracting means the client's informed, voluntary, and ongoing agreement to the therapeutic goals, methods, and processes — a fundamental ethical requirement.

Question 8: What is the 'gimmick' in Berne's game formula?

The weakness or vulnerability in the respondent that allows the con to hook them (Correct answer)
A clever therapeutic technique
A therapeutic tool
An unusual transaction

Correct answer: The weakness or vulnerability in the respondent that allows the con to hook them

The gimmick is the respondent's vulnerability — a need, weakness, or script belief — that makes them susceptible to the initiator's con.

Question 9: According to Berne, when are most life script decisions made?

In adolescence
During the teenage years
In adulthood during stressful events
In early childhood, typically before age 7 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: In early childhood, typically before age 7

Berne described script decisions as typically made in early childhood (before age 7) when the child lacks the cognitive tools to evaluate parental messages objectively.

Question 10: What is the 'stroke economy' in TA, as described by Claude Steiner?

A financial metaphor for therapy fees
The total number of strokes in a relationship
A system for earning positive strokes
The artificial restriction of strokes taught in childhood to create dependency and control (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The artificial restriction of strokes taught in childhood to create dependency and control

The stroke economy, described by Steiner, refers to parental rules that restrict stroke-giving and receiving, creating artificial scarcity of strokes to maintain control.

Question 11: What are 'counterinjunctions' (also called 'drivers') in script theory?

Countertransference reactions
Therapeutic instructions
Positive script messages from the Parent ego state
Messages from the Parent ego state that demand certain behaviors to be acceptable (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Messages from the Parent ego state that demand certain behaviors to be acceptable

Counterinjunctions, or drivers, are demanding messages from the parents' Parent ego state that prescribe behaviors ('be perfect,' 'try hard,' 'hurry up') the child must exhibit to gain acceptance.

Question 12: Intimacy as a component of autonomy in TA involves:

Maintaining strict and appropriate professional boundaries
Therapeutic self-disclosure between client and therapist only
Game-free candid sharing of feelings and needs (Correct answer)
Romantic relationships free from all conflict

Correct answer: Game-free candid sharing of feelings and needs

Intimacy as an autonomous capacity involves authentic, game-free mutual sharing without hidden agendas or script-driven interactions.

Question 13: What is the therapeutic goal when working with racket feelings in TA?

To help the client identify and express authentic feelings instead of substituting racket feelings (Correct answer)
To validate all feelings equally
To eliminate all strong emotions
To increase racket feeling awareness only

Correct answer: To help the client identify and express authentic feelings instead of substituting racket feelings

The therapeutic goal is to help clients identify the authentic feelings underlying their racket feelings and express them appropriately, freeing them from script-driven emotional patterns.

Question 14: In TA theory, achieving autonomy fundamentally requires releasing oneself from:

Script-based life decisions made in childhood (Correct answer)
The constant influence of the Parent ego state
External social obligations and cultural expectations
All therapeutic relationships and dependencies

Correct answer: Script-based life decisions made in childhood

Autonomy is achieved when a person can release the script decisions made in childhood that have been limiting their awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy.

Question 15: Withdrawal as a time structure refers to:

Psychologically disengaging while physically present or absent (Correct answer)
A therapeutic technique for managing overwhelming anxiety
Refusing all forms of social interaction permanently
Removing oneself deliberately from game-playing situations

Correct answer: Psychologically disengaging while physically present or absent

Withdrawal involves retreating into fantasy or inner experience regardless of whether one is physically present with others.

Question 16: What are 'plastic strokes' in TA?

A type of unconditional stroke
Insincere, hollow strokes that appear positive but lack genuine warmth (Correct answer)
Strokes given to children
Physically nurturing touch

Correct answer: Insincere, hollow strokes that appear positive but lack genuine warmth

Plastic strokes are insincere, hollow positive strokes that appear genuine but lack real warmth or meaning, often felt as patronizing or manipulative.

Question 17: What distinguishes a 'game' from a single 'ulterior transaction' in TA?

There is no difference
Games are series of transactions with predictable outcomes while ulterior transactions are single covert exchanges (Correct answer)
Games are therapeutic and ulterior transactions are harmful
Games are conscious and ulterior transactions are unconscious

Correct answer: Games are series of transactions with predictable outcomes while ulterior transactions are single covert exchanges

An ulterior transaction is a single exchange with both an overt and covert message, while a game is a series of such transactions forming a predictable, recurring pattern ending in a payoff.

Question 18: Why is client autonomy emphasized in TA contracting?

Because TA views clients as capable adults who decide their own goals and direction (Correct answer)
To comply with insurance requirements
To keep sessions shorter
To reduce the therapist's workload

Correct answer: Because TA views clients as capable adults who decide their own goals and direction

TA's emphasis on autonomy reflects the belief that clients are capable adults with the right to determine their own therapeutic goals and direction.

Question 19: What is the difference between a 'negative stroke' and 'no stroke' (being ignored) in terms of psychological impact?

There is no difference in psychological impact
Being ignored is less harmful than a negative stroke
Negative strokes are always more harmful than being ignored
A negative stroke is painful but confirms existence; being ignored is more devastating as it denies existence entirely (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A negative stroke is painful but confirms existence; being ignored is more devastating as it denies existence entirely

While negative strokes are painful, being ignored is often more psychologically devastating because it fails to confirm the person's existence, driving people to prefer negative strokes over none.

Question 20: What is the basic psychological position I'm OK, You're OK associated with?

Depression and self-doubt
Social withdrawal
Narcissism
Healthy self-esteem and genuine respect for others (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Healthy self-esteem and genuine respect for others

The I'm OK, You're OK position reflects a healthy sense of self-worth combined with genuine respect and trust for others, associated with mental health.

Question 21: What is a 'constant Adult' (or 'excluding Adult') in TA pathology?

A healthy therapeutic stance
A person who blocks Parent and Child and operates almost entirely from the Adult (Correct answer)
A therapist who stays neutral
A form of contamination

Correct answer: A person who blocks Parent and Child and operates almost entirely from the Adult

A constant Adult, or excluding Adult, describes someone who chronically blocks access to Parent and Child ego states and operates in a cold, overly rational manner.

Question 22: What is the difference between 'conditional' and 'unconditional' strokes?

There is no meaningful difference
Conditional strokes are positive; unconditional are negative
Conditional strokes are verbal; unconditional are nonverbal
Conditional strokes are for what a person does; unconditional are for who a person is (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Conditional strokes are for what a person does; unconditional are for who a person is

Conditional strokes are given for behavior ('You did a great job'), while unconditional strokes are given for being ('I love you just as you are').

Question 23: What does 'okayness' in contracting refer to in TA?

A simplified contract for children
The therapist affirming the client's inherent worth while working on behavioral change (Correct answer)
Client satisfaction with the contract
An informal contract style

Correct answer: The therapist affirming the client's inherent worth while working on behavioral change

Okayness in contracting reflects the TA principle that the contract is made between two OK people — the therapist affirms the client's inherent worth regardless of the changes being sought.

Question 24: How does TA describe 'ego state boundaries'?

The psychological membranes separating ego states that regulate movement between them (Correct answer)
Limits on stroke-giving
Rules about therapeutic boundaries
Physical limits in therapy

Correct answer: The psychological membranes separating ego states that regulate movement between them

Ego state boundaries are the psychological membranes that separate the ego states and regulate the flow of energy between them.

Question 25: What term describes a predictable response to a stimulus?

Cognitive overload.
Behavioral unpredictability.
Patterned response (Correct answer)
Emotional intelligence.

Correct answer: Patterned response

A patterned response refers to a predictable and often habitual reaction to a specific stimulus or situation. These responses are learned over time and can become automatic, influencing how individuals interact in various communication scenarios. In Transactional Analysis, these patterns are often linked to ego states and scripts.

Question 26: What is the ethical concern if a practitioner imposes personal beliefs on a client?

Reducing miscommunication.
Enhancing empathy.
Building rapport.
Violating client autonomy (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Violating client autonomy

Client autonomy refers to the client's right to make their own decisions and choices, free from coercion or undue influence. When a practitioner imposes personal beliefs, they undermine the client's self-determination and right to self-direction, which is a fundamental ethical principle in therapy. The therapist's role is to facilitate the client's own growth, not dictate it.

Question 27: In TA, 'autonomy' is defined as the recovery of which three capacities?

Thinking, feeling, and behaving freely
Insight, growth, and change
Parent, Adult, and Child integration
Awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy

Berne defined autonomy as the recovery or reclamation of three human capacities: awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy.

Question 28: What is the 'payoff' of a psychological game in TA?

A positive stroke
The negative feeling that confirms the player's script at the game's conclusion (Correct answer)
A therapeutic breakthrough
A financial reward

Correct answer: The negative feeling that confirms the player's script at the game's conclusion

The payoff is the negative emotional outcome each player experiences at the end of the game, which reinforces their script beliefs and life position.

Question 29: What term describes the phenomenon where ego state boundaries are either too rigid or too permeable?

Ego state boundary issues (Correct answer)
Crossed transaction
Exclusion
Transference

Correct answer: Ego state boundary issues

Ego state boundary issues occur when the boundaries between ego states are either too rigid (exclusion) or too permeable, causing confusion about which state is active.

Question 30: In structural analysis, what is a 'second-order' ego state analysis?

Examining the internal structure within each ego state (Correct answer)
Reviewing script decisions
Studying game patterns
Analyzing transactions between two people

Correct answer: Examining the internal structure within each ego state

Second-order structural analysis examines the internal structure within each ego state, revealing Parent, Adult, and Child elements inside each state.

Question 31: What is a crossed transaction in communication?

An unexpected reply causing miscommunication (Correct answer)
A matched and expected reply.
A positive agreement.
A silent treatment.

Correct answer: An unexpected reply causing miscommunication

A crossed transaction occurs when a message sent from one ego state receives an unexpected reply from a different ego state than the one it was addressed to. This mismatch in ego states often leads to a breakdown in communication, causing misunderstanding or conflict. It deviates from a complementary transaction where the response is expected and appropriate.

Question 32: What is the 'antithesis' to a game in TA?

A therapeutic confrontation
A game played in reverse
A positive version of the game
A therapeutic move that prevents or interrupts the game (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A therapeutic move that prevents or interrupts the game

The antithesis is a specific therapeutic or interpersonal response that prevents the game from proceeding by not providing the hook the game needs.

Question 33: How does 'decontamination' help clients in TA therapy?

It clarifies Adult ego state functioning by distinguishing it from Parent and Child intrusions (Correct answer)
It eliminates script beliefs entirely
It strengthens the Free Child
It removes all Parent and Child influence

Correct answer: It clarifies Adult ego state functioning by distinguishing it from Parent and Child intrusions

Decontamination helps clients distinguish their current Adult thinking from distorted beliefs and feelings from the Parent or Child ego states.

Question 34: What characterizes a 'good' therapeutic contract in TA according to Claude Steiner's criteria?

It should address every possible outcome
It must be written by the therapist alone
It should be long and detailed
It must be specific, measurable, achievable, legal, and involve mutual consent (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It must be specific, measurable, achievable, legal, and involve mutual consent

A good TA contract is specific (clear behavioral terms), achievable, legal, within the therapist's competence, and agreed upon by both parties.

Question 35: Which concept describes the specific fairy tale or myth that a person's script most resembles?

Existential position
Script matrix
Mythic overlay
Script theme or script story (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Script theme or script story

The script theme or script story identifies the narrative or mythic pattern (e.g., Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Sisyphus) that best represents a person's life script.

Question 36: Which theorist first described the structural model of ego states in transactional analysis?

Carl Rogers
Eric Berne (Correct answer)
Aaron Beck
Fritz Perls

Correct answer: Eric Berne

Eric Berne developed the structural model of ego states (Parent, Adult, Child) as the foundational framework of transactional analysis.

Question 37: In TA, what does the 'Adapted Child' ego state represent?

A therapeutic goal
A healthy adjustment to social norms
The Child's creative impulses
The child's learned responses to parental and environmental demands (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The child's learned responses to parental and environmental demands

The Adapted Child represents behaviors and responses the child learned to adapt to parental expectations and environmental demands.

Question 38: How should a TA therapist handle a client whose stated contract conflicts with their script goals?

Explore the discrepancy between the stated contract and the script with the client (Correct answer)
Accept the stated contract only
Refuse to work with the client
Ignore the script and focus only on the contract

Correct answer: Explore the discrepancy between the stated contract and the script with the client

When a stated contract and script goals conflict, the TA therapist explores this discrepancy with the client, helping bring awareness to how the script may be sabotaging stated therapeutic goals.

Question 39: What is the 'script matrix' used for in TA?

Mapping the script messages received from each parent or parental figure (Correct answer)
Tracking session progress
Planning treatment goals
Diagnosing personality disorders

Correct answer: Mapping the script messages received from each parent or parental figure

The script matrix is a diagrammatic tool that maps the script messages (injunctions, counterinjunctions, and program) received from each parental figure.

Question 40: Which time structure carries the highest level of psychological risk according to TA theory?

Intimacy (Correct answer)
Activities
Rituals
Games

Correct answer: Intimacy

Intimacy is the most psychologically risky form of time structuring because it involves authentic, unguarded connection without scripts or games as protection.

Question 41: What typically triggers defensive communication patterns?

Lack of interest.
Perceived threat or criticism (Correct answer)
Recognition and praise.
Clear instructions.

Correct answer: Perceived threat or criticism

Defensive communication patterns typically arise when an individual feels attacked, judged, or threatened, either physically or psychologically. This perception of threat, often stemming from criticism or blame, triggers a need to protect oneself, leading to behaviors like denial, counter-attacking, or withdrawal. It's a natural human response to perceived danger.

Question 42: What is the first step in resolving interpersonal conflicts?

Ignore the situation.
Acknowledge the conflict (Correct answer)
Blame the other party.
Leave the relationship.

Correct answer: Acknowledge the conflict

The first essential step in resolving any interpersonal conflict is to acknowledge that a conflict exists and to recognize the differing perspectives involved. Ignoring or denying the conflict only allows it to fester and escalate. Acknowledgment opens the door for discussion, understanding, and ultimately, resolution.

Question 43: What is 'stroke hunger' in TA?

The fundamental human need for recognition and stimulation (Correct answer)
A client's reluctance to give strokes
Overgiving strokes in sessions
Being dissatisfied with therapy

Correct answer: The fundamental human need for recognition and stimulation

Stroke hunger is the fundamental human need and drive for recognition and stimulation, which motivates much of human behavior and interaction.

Question 44: What is the 'program' in script theory?

A behavioral protocol
A computer metaphor for the Adult
Parental modeling that shows the child how to live out the script (Correct answer)
A treatment curriculum

Correct answer: Parental modeling that shows the child how to live out the script

The program refers to parental modeling from the Parent ego state that demonstrates to the child how to execute the script in everyday life.

Question 45: In transactional analysis, what is a 'life script'?

A behavioral contract
A written treatment plan
A list of therapeutic goals
An unconscious life plan decided in childhood based on early experiences (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An unconscious life plan decided in childhood based on early experiences

A life script is an unconscious life plan made in childhood, reinforced by parents, justified by subsequent events, and culminating in a chosen alternative.

Question 46: What is the game 'Yes, But' primarily designed to confirm?

That the therapist is incompetent
That no one can help, confirming a Not OK script position (Correct answer)
That the initiator is highly intelligent
That advice is always welcome

Correct answer: That no one can help, confirming a Not OK script position

'Yes, But' confirms the player's script belief that no one can truly help and that problems are unsolvable, reinforcing their Not OK position.

Question 47: Berne's six types of time structure, ordered from least to most psychologically intimate, are:

Pastimes, Activities, Rituals, Games, Withdrawal, Intimacy
Activities, Rituals, Pastimes, Games, Withdrawal, Intimacy
Rituals, Withdrawal, Games, Pastimes, Activities, Intimacy
Withdrawal, Rituals, Pastimes, Activities, Games, Intimacy (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Withdrawal, Rituals, Pastimes, Activities, Games, Intimacy

Berne ordered the six types from most to least psychologically safe, beginning with withdrawal and ending with the risky but genuine contact of intimacy.

Question 48: The relationship between script and autonomy in TA is best described as:

Script supports autonomy by providing behavioral guidelines
Autonomy develops from script awareness alone, not from script release
Script is the primary obstacle to the development of autonomy (Correct answer)
Script and autonomy are complementary and mutually reinforcing goals

Correct answer: Script is the primary obstacle to the development of autonomy

In TA, scripts are unconscious life plans formed in childhood that constrain authentic living, making script release the necessary path to reclaiming autonomy.

Question 49: What is the 'script payoff' or tragic ending of a life script?

A positive therapeutic outcome
A celebration at therapy completion
The final outcome that confirms and fulfills the life script (Correct answer)
A relapse prevention strategy

Correct answer: The final outcome that confirms and fulfills the life script

The script payoff is the final outcome of the life script that confirms its core decisions, such as chronic depression, relationship failures, or self-destruction.

Question 50: What is the significance of including measurable outcomes in a TA treatment contract?

It satisfies insurance companies only
It ensures both therapist and client can assess progress and know when goals are achieved (Correct answer)
It limits the scope of therapy unnecessarily
It is only relevant in CBT, not TA

Correct answer: It ensures both therapist and client can assess progress and know when goals are achieved

Measurable outcomes in the contract allow both therapist and client to track progress, evaluate effectiveness, and recognize when the therapeutic goal has been achieved.

Question 51: Which situation best illustrates a boundary violation?

Adhering to professional schedules.
Keeping therapy sessions structured.
Becoming close personal friends with a client (Correct answer)
Following confidentiality rules.

Correct answer: Becoming close personal friends with a client

A boundary violation occurs when a professional crosses the line from a therapeutic relationship into a personal one, blurring roles and potentially exploiting the client's vulnerability. Becoming personal friends with a client compromises objectivity, creates a dual relationship, and undermines the professional nature of the therapeutic alliance, which is unethical.

Question 52: What is a 'psychological-level contract' in TA treatment planning?

A secret agreement
A nonverbal contract
A psychoanalytic term
The deeper, often implicit agreement that reflects the client's script and resistance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The deeper, often implicit agreement that reflects the client's script and resistance

The psychological-level contract addresses the deeper, sometimes unconscious elements of the therapy agreement, including how the client's script may influence the therapeutic relationship.

Question 53: What is the purpose of analyzing 'games' in TA?

Understand and change negative interaction patterns (Correct answer)
Select marketing strategies.
Identify financial fraud.
Increase competition.

Correct answer: Understand and change negative interaction patterns

In Transactional Analysis, "games" are repetitive, ulterior transactions that lead to a predictable, negative outcome or "payoff" for all players. Analyzing these games helps individuals recognize their dysfunctional interaction patterns, understand the underlying psychological needs, and ultimately choose healthier ways of relating.

Question 54: What is the clinical significance of exploring a client's 'favorite story' or 'hero' in TA script analysis?

It measures cultural background
It identifies intellectual functioning
It provides entertainment
It reveals core script themes, values, and the anticipated life outcome (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It reveals core script themes, values, and the anticipated life outcome

A client's favorite story or hero often mirrors their life script, revealing core themes, the role they cast themselves in, and the anticipated ending.

Question 55: What is the 'Free Child' in transactional analysis?

A technique for liberating the Child ego state
The natural, spontaneous, and uninhibited aspect of the Child ego state (Correct answer)
A child raised without restrictions
A child who has no script

Correct answer: The natural, spontaneous, and uninhibited aspect of the Child ego state

The Free Child represents the natural, spontaneous, creative, and uninhibited aspect of the Child ego state before socialization.

Question 56: What is a 'gold stamp' versus a 'brown stamp' in TA?

There is no meaningful difference
Gold stamps are authentic; brown stamps are racket feelings
Gold stamps are stored positive feelings; brown stamps are stored negative feelings (Correct answer)
Gold stamps are from the Parent; brown stamps are from the Child

Correct answer: Gold stamps are stored positive feelings; brown stamps are stored negative feelings

Gold stamps represent stored positive feelings (like righteousness or pride) cashed in for a reward, while brown stamps are stored negative feelings cashed in for expressions like anger or depression.

Question 57: In TA, what is an 'existential script'?

A cultural script
A philosophy-based therapy approach
A script based on the fundamental question of how one will live and die (Correct answer)
A script written in therapy

Correct answer: A script based on the fundamental question of how one will live and die

An existential script addresses the fundamental questions of how a person will live out their life and the nature of their script's conclusion.

Question 58: What is 'ego state shifting' and why is it important in TA?

Moving between ego states flexibly based on context, indicating psychological health (Correct answer)
Always staying in the Adult ego state
A pathological condition
A type of defensive reaction

Correct answer: Moving between ego states flexibly based on context, indicating psychological health

Ego state shifting is the healthy ability to move fluidly between ego states based on situational demands, reflecting psychological flexibility.

Question 59: Which term describes repeated unhealthy patterns in relationships?

Dysfunctional patterns (Correct answer)
Strategic planning.
Dynamic equilibrium.
Positive cycles.

Correct answer: Dysfunctional patterns

Dysfunctional patterns refer to recurring, unhealthy, and often rigid ways of interacting within relationships that lead to negative outcomes, distress, or stagnation. These patterns can involve communication breakdowns, power imbalances, or repetitive conflicts, hindering growth and well-being for those involved. Identifying and changing these patterns is often a goal in therapy.

Question 60: Which of the five 'driver' behaviors identified by Taibi Kahler suggests perfectionism as a core script theme?

Please Others
Hurry Up
Try Hard
Be Perfect (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Be Perfect

The 'Be Perfect' driver manifests as perfectionism, excessive self-criticism, and fear of making mistakes as a way to feel acceptable.

Question 61: Which ego state represents internalized parental figures and their rules, values, and beliefs?

Adult
Parent (Correct answer)
Child
Adapted Child

Correct answer: Parent

The Parent ego state contains internalized messages and behaviors from parental figures, including their rules, values, and beliefs.

Question 62: Eric Berne identified how many ways people structure their time?

Four
Six (Correct answer)
Seven
Five

Correct answer: Six

Berne identified six ways people structure time: withdrawal, rituals, pastimes, activities, games, and intimacy.

Question 63: Which behavior is associated with the Free Child ego state?

Obedience to rules.
Spontaneous and joyful behavior (Correct answer)
Formal documentation.
Authoritative commands.

Correct answer: Spontaneous and joyful behavior

The Free Child ego state in Transactional Analysis represents the natural, uninhibited, and spontaneous aspects of a person. It is characterized by genuine emotions, creativity, curiosity, and a sense of joy and playfulness, free from parental injunctions or adaptations. This contrasts with the Adapted Child, which conforms to rules.

Question 64: What is a 'doing' contract in TA?

A one-session contract
A contract for resistant clients
A contract focused on specific behavioral change rather than script-level insight (Correct answer)
A contract to speed up therapy

Correct answer: A contract focused on specific behavioral change rather than script-level insight

A doing contract focuses on specific behavioral changes the client wants to make, which may be the focus of early-stage therapy before deeper script work begins.

Question 65: In the Drama Triangle, what characterizes the 'Rescuer' role?

Neutral problem-solving
Appearing to help while actually maintaining the Victim's helplessness (Correct answer)
Aggressive attacks on others
Passive suffering

Correct answer: Appearing to help while actually maintaining the Victim's helplessness

The Rescuer in the Drama Triangle appears to help but actually maintains the Victim's dependence and helplessness, often acting from an I'm OK, You're Not OK position.

Question 66: What are the four basic life positions in transactional analysis?

Happy, Sad, Angry, Fearful
I'm OK/You're OK; I'm OK/You're Not OK; I'm Not OK/You're OK; I'm Not OK/You're Not OK (Correct answer)
Strong, Weak, Dominant, Submissive
Active, Passive, Aggressive, Assertive

Correct answer: I'm OK/You're OK; I'm OK/You're Not OK; I'm Not OK/You're OK; I'm Not OK/You're Not OK

The four basic life positions describe fundamental existential stances: I'm OK/You're OK (healthy), I'm OK/You're Not OK (arrogant), I'm Not OK/You're OK (depressive), and I'm Not OK/You're Not OK (futile).

Question 67: What is 'stroke deprivation' and its psychological consequences in TA?

Being too busy to give strokes
A therapeutic technique involving silence
Refusing negative strokes
Insufficient recognition leading to withdrawal, depression, and psychological deterioration (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Insufficient recognition leading to withdrawal, depression, and psychological deterioration

Stroke deprivation occurs when people receive insufficient recognition, leading to psychological and even physical deterioration, as documented in Spitz's research on hospitalism.

Question 68: Clinicians using TA recognize that most everyday social interactions occur at which level of time structuring?

Intimacy
Pastimes and rituals (Correct answer)
Activities
Games

Correct answer: Pastimes and rituals

The majority of ordinary social interactions consist of rituals and pastimes, which provide predictability and social structure without requiring deep psychological engagement.

Question 69: What is a boundary in interpersonal relationships?

An online password.
A government regulation.
A personal limit for acceptable behavior (Correct answer)
A financial credit line.

Correct answer: A personal limit for acceptable behavior

In interpersonal relationships, a boundary is a psychological or emotional line that defines what an individual finds acceptable or unacceptable in terms of treatment, communication, and interaction. Healthy boundaries are essential for maintaining self-respect, protecting personal space, and fostering respectful relationships by clearly communicating individual limits.

Question 70: How does pastiming differ from intimacy in TA?

Pastiming is scripted social conversation; intimacy is authentic and unscripted (Correct answer)
Pastiming occurs only in groups while intimacy is always one-on-one
Pastiming generates more strokes per exchange than intimacy does
Pastiming involves physical activity while intimacy is purely verbal

Correct answer: Pastiming is scripted social conversation; intimacy is authentic and unscripted

Pastimes involve predictable social exchanges without authentic self-disclosure, while intimacy requires genuine, game-free connection and vulnerability.

Question 71: A person demonstrating full awareness in Berne's sense would most likely:

Have extensive intellectual knowledge of their personal history
Be entirely free from all emotional reactions and feelings
Maintain complete intellectual objectivity in all situations
Experience the present moment directly without script distortion (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Experience the present moment directly without script distortion

Berne's awareness refers to perceiving reality directly and freshly, like a young child, without the filters imposed by script and social conditioning.

Question 72: What is a 'hamartic script' (or tragic script) in TA?

A script that leads to destructive outcomes for oneself or others (Correct answer)
A cultural script
A type of game
A script that ends in achievement

Correct answer: A script that leads to destructive outcomes for oneself or others

A hamartic script is a life script that leads to tragic or destructive outcomes, such as suicide, murder, or other self-defeating endpoints.

Question 73: What behavioral cues might indicate a client is operating from the Critical Parent ego state?

Playful laughter and spontaneity
Slumped posture and tearfulness
Furrowed brow, pointing finger, and judgmental tone (Correct answer)
Calm, measured problem-solving

Correct answer: Furrowed brow, pointing finger, and judgmental tone

The Critical Parent is often observable through nonverbal cues like furrowed brows, pointing fingers, and a judgmental, authoritative tone.

Question 74: How does 'script redecision' work in TA therapy?

The therapist rewrites the client's story
The client revises early script decisions in a corrective emotional experience (Correct answer)
The client memorizes new beliefs
A new treatment contract is written

Correct answer: The client revises early script decisions in a corrective emotional experience

Script redecision involves the client re-experiencing and revising early script decisions in a corrective emotional experience, often using two-chair work or regression techniques.

Question 75: What makes a TA contract 'Adult to Adult'?

It excludes emotional content
The contract uses adult language
Both parties are over 18
Both therapist and client engage as autonomous, informed adults with mutual agreement (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Both therapist and client engage as autonomous, informed adults with mutual agreement

An Adult-to-Adult contract means both therapist and client operate from their Adult ego states — making informed, autonomous, and mutually agreed upon commitments.

Question 76: What is the primary purpose of a therapeutic contract in TA?

To establish a clear, mutual agreement about the goals and methods of therapy (Correct answer)
To protect the therapist legally
To diagnose the client
To set payment terms

Correct answer: To establish a clear, mutual agreement about the goals and methods of therapy

A therapeutic contract in TA establishes a clear, mutually agreed upon statement of the goals and methods of therapy, reflecting both therapist and client responsibility.

Question 77: What is the 'witch message' or 'curse' in script theory?

A cultural superstition
The most destructive injunction that prescribes the script's tragic ending (Correct answer)
A metaphor for toxic relationships
A type of crossed transaction

Correct answer: The most destructive injunction that prescribes the script's tragic ending

The witch message or curse is the most powerful and destructive injunction, often a nonverbal parental message that prescribes the tragic endpoint of the life script.

Question 78: Which ethical value supports equal treatment without discrimination?

Justice (Correct answer)
Profitability.
Visibility.
Efficiency.

Correct answer: Justice

In ethical frameworks, the principle of justice refers to the fair and equitable treatment of all individuals, ensuring that services and resources are distributed impartially and without discrimination. This means practitioners should provide care equally, regardless of a client's background, beliefs, or characteristics, upholding fairness and equality.

Question 79: Which form of time structuring involves people working together toward a shared real-world goal?

Pastimes
Rituals
Activities (Correct answer)
Games

Correct answer: Activities

Activities are time structures focused on accomplishing tasks in external reality, such as collaborating on a work project.

Question 80: Which are the three ego states in Transactional Analysis?

Past, Present, Future.
Thinking, Acting, Sleeping.
Parent, Adult, Child (Correct answer)
Leader, Follower, Observer.

Correct answer: Parent, Adult, Child

In Transactional Analysis, the three ego states are Parent, Adult, and Child. These represent distinct patterns of feeling, thinking, and behaving that individuals use in their interactions, reflecting influences from childhood, rational processing, and learned behaviors.

Question 81: What distinguishes the Adult ego state from the Parent and Child ego states?

It mirrors early childhood experiences
It processes information based on present reality (Correct answer)
It reflects only nurturing behaviors
It contains only positive emotions

Correct answer: It processes information based on present reality

The Adult ego state processes information based on current reality, reasoning logically without contamination from Parent or Child ego states.

Question 82: In TA group therapy, how does the contracting process differ from individual therapy?

Each member contracts individually with the therapist while the group witnesses and supports the contract (Correct answer)
There is no contracting in group TA
Contracting is less important in groups
The group collectively decides contracts for each member

Correct answer: Each member contracts individually with the therapist while the group witnesses and supports the contract

In TA group therapy, each member contracts individually with the therapist while the group serves as witnesses and sources of support for each member's contract.

Question 83: What is 'contamination' in the context of ego state theory?

A script pattern
When Parent or Child material intrudes into Adult functioning (Correct answer)
A therapeutic technique
A type of stroke exchange

Correct answer: When Parent or Child material intrudes into Adult functioning

Contamination occurs when Parent or Child ego state content intrudes into and distorts Adult ego state functioning.

Question 84: In TA, what does the term 'autonomy' represent as a therapeutic goal?

Independence from the therapist
Having no emotional needs
The recovery of awareness, spontaneity, and capacity for intimacy free from script (Correct answer)
Self-employment after therapy

Correct answer: The recovery of awareness, spontaneity, and capacity for intimacy free from script

Autonomy in TA means the recovery of three capacities — awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy — that were suppressed by script decisions.

Question 85: Which concept describes the way game playing reinforces a person's life script?

Game payoffs produce racket feelings that confirm and deepen script decisions (Correct answer)
Script matrix
Therapeutic alliance
Stroke economy

Correct answer: Game payoffs produce racket feelings that confirm and deepen script decisions

Game payoffs produce racket feelings that reinforce the script — each game played adds to the collection of evidence supporting the script's core decisions.

Question 86: What is the role of 'treatment direction' in TA therapy?

The direction of the therapy room
The overarching therapeutic aim toward script change and autonomy (Correct answer)
Insurance-required documentation
The therapist's personal goals

Correct answer: The overarching therapeutic aim toward script change and autonomy

Treatment direction in TA refers to the overarching aim of helping the client move toward script change, autonomy, and liberation from limiting early decisions.

Question 87: How does awareness of the stroke economy help a TA client in therapy?

It helps clients identify and challenge internalized rules that limit healthy stroke exchange (Correct answer)
It teaches clients to give more compliments
It encourages withdrawal from relationships
It focuses on financial independence

Correct answer: It helps clients identify and challenge internalized rules that limit healthy stroke exchange

By becoming aware of stroke economy rules they internalized, clients can challenge and change those rules, learning to give, receive, ask for, and reject strokes freely and authentically.

Question 88: In TA, what is the significance of identifying which ego state a client is in during a session?

It tells the therapist the client's IQ
It is required for diagnosis only
It guides the therapist in choosing appropriate interventions to facilitate change (Correct answer)
It determines the fee structure

Correct answer: It guides the therapist in choosing appropriate interventions to facilitate change

Identifying a client's active ego state helps the therapist select interventions that appropriately address the needs and material being expressed.

Question 89: According to TA, what happens when positive strokes are consistently unavailable?

People stop needing strokes
People will seek negative strokes to fulfill their stroke hunger (Correct answer)
People become healthier
People only give strokes to others

Correct answer: People will seek negative strokes to fulfill their stroke hunger

When positive strokes are unavailable, people will seek negative strokes because negative recognition is preferable to being ignored entirely.

Question 90: What are the three degrees of games in TA as described by Berne?

Surface, Deep, Profound
First-degree (social level), Second-degree (personal harm), Third-degree (physical harm or tragedy) (Correct answer)
Social, Professional, Legal
Mild, Moderate, Severe

Correct answer: First-degree (social level), Second-degree (personal harm), Third-degree (physical harm or tragedy)

Berne described games in three degrees of severity: first-degree (minor, socially acceptable consequences), second-degree (more serious personal harm), and third-degree (resulting in physical harm, legal involvement, or death).

Question 91: Spontaneity in the context of TA autonomy means:

Responding to others without any prior planning
Acting impulsively without considering consequences
The freedom to choose from the full range of ego states (Correct answer)
Expressing Child ego state impulses without inhibition

Correct answer: The freedom to choose from the full range of ego states

Spontaneity means having the option to select freely from the full repertoire of behaviors available across all ego states, rather than being script-constrained.

Question 92: According to TA, what are the three levels of contract?

Administrative, Professional, Psychological (Correct answer)
Behavioral, Emotional, Cognitive
Social, Professional, Existential
Legal, Ethical, Clinical

Correct answer: Administrative, Professional, Psychological

TA identifies three levels of contract: administrative (practical arrangements), professional (therapeutic goals and methods), and psychological (the deeper, often unconscious aspect).

Question 93: What role does the Victim position in the Drama Triangle play in perpetuating games?

The Victim provides the antithesis
The Victim ends the game
The Victim position invites Rescuers and Persecutors, setting the game in motion (Correct answer)
The Victim is always passive

Correct answer: The Victim position invites Rescuers and Persecutors, setting the game in motion

The Victim position sends covert invitations for Rescuers (who will eventually switch to Persecutors) or Persecutors, initiating and perpetuating the game cycle.

Question 94: How does body language influence communication patterns?

It has no effect.
It enhances or undermines verbal messages (Correct answer)
It slows down communication.
It improves technical writing.

Correct answer: It enhances or undermines verbal messages

Body language, including gestures, facial expressions, posture, and eye contact, is a powerful form of non-verbal communication. It can reinforce and add depth to spoken words, or it can contradict them, creating confusion or mistrust. Non-verbal cues often convey more about a person's true feelings than their verbal statements.

Question 95: In transactional analysis, what is a 'game'?

A repetitive series of transactions with a hidden agenda that ends in bad feelings (Correct answer)
A competitive interaction between clients
A recreational activity in therapy
A therapeutic role-play technique

Correct answer: A repetitive series of transactions with a hidden agenda that ends in bad feelings

A game in TA is a recurring series of transactions with an ulterior motive that ends predictably with negative feelings (the payoff) for all parties.

Question 96: What is meant by 'ego state cathexis' in transactional analysis?

A stroke given to reinforce an ego state
The process of changing ego states
A form of emotional release
The energy invested in a particular ego state, making it active (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The energy invested in a particular ego state, making it active

Ego state cathexis refers to the psychic energy invested in a particular ego state, determining which ego state is currently active and dominant.

Question 97: What is the difference between a 'business contract' and a 'treatment contract' in TA?

The business contract is verbal; the treatment contract is written
They are the same thing
The business contract covers practical and administrative arrangements; the treatment contract addresses therapeutic goals (Correct answer)
The treatment contract is only for long-term therapy

Correct answer: The business contract covers practical and administrative arrangements; the treatment contract addresses therapeutic goals

The business contract addresses practical matters (fees, scheduling, confidentiality), while the treatment contract focuses on the specific goals and methods of therapeutic work.

Question 98: Which subdivision of the Parent ego state tends to offer care, support, and encouragement?

Adapted Parent
Nurturing Parent (Correct answer)
Controlling Parent
Critical Parent

Correct answer: Nurturing Parent

The Nurturing Parent subdivision provides care, support, and encouragement, contrasting with the Critical Parent which judges and criticizes.

Question 99: How does active listening impact interpersonal dynamics?

Creates distance between people.
Encourages passive behavior.
Builds understanding and trust (Correct answer)
Shortens conversations.

Correct answer: Builds understanding and trust

Active listening involves fully concentrating on what is being said, both verbally and non-verbally, and demonstrating that understanding through feedback. This practice makes the speaker feel heard and valued, which in turn fosters empathy, reduces misunderstandings, and strengthens the emotional bond and trust between individuals.

Question 100: What are 'injunctions' in TA script theory?

Ethical guidelines for therapists
Legal orders in therapy
Negative, inhibiting messages received from the parents' Child ego state (Correct answer)
Positive parental instructions

Correct answer: Negative, inhibiting messages received from the parents' Child ego state

Injunctions are negative, restrictive messages that originate from the parents' own Child ego state and inhibit the child's natural development.

CTA - Certified Transactional Analyst

The CTA credential certifies professionals in Transactional Analysis theory and practice, covering ego states, scripts, life positions, psychological games, and therapeutic contracts. Administered by ITAA and EATA, it validates expertise in applying TA frameworks across counselling, education, and organizational settings.

100

Questions

120 min

Time Limit

65%

To Pass

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