The Application of Transactional Analysis in the Editorial Process:Communication, Relationships, and the Dynamics ofAuthor – Editor Interactions

Abstract

The author of this article analyses patterns of communication within the author – editor relationship from the perspectiveof Transactional Analysis (TA). Referring to the course of the editorial process, she describes typical models of interaction, paying particular attention to conflict situations in which the author, as an expert in a given field, transfers the status of their interpretation of interactions within the publishing process presented in this article demonstrates how communicative behaviours rooted in the Critical Parent or Rebellious Child ego states may lead to crossed transactions and the emergence of the psychological game “Yes, but...”, thus contributing to the escalation of tension. The author proposes strategies aimed at resolving conflict situations, including maintaining interactions at the Adult – Adult level, jointly establishing an editorial contract, relying on objective linguistic norms, and providing substantive justification for editorial interventions. The key recommendation is to strengthen the partnership between editor and author by applying clear principles of cooperation and drawing upon the assumptions of Transactional Analysis (e.g., responding from the Adult ego state and offering recognition) in order to improve the effectiveness of the editorial process.