Abstract
This article reviews approaches to defining ego states with reference to the Parent ego state. It argues that the definitions offer ways to reconsider and explore the therapeutic relationship and identifies five areas in which the presence and operation of the Parent is, or can be, significant.
Disclosure Statement
The author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
Notes on Contributor
Dr. Phil Anthony is a Provisional Teaching and Supervising Transactional Analyst (psychotherapy) and a psychotherapist in private practice based in Northamptonshire, England. He is also a senior lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire. Phil can be reached at Oxford Street Therapy Centre, Oxford Street, Wellingsborough, Northamptonshire NN8 4HY, United Kingdom; email: [email protected].