In the case of an interpersonal relationship, the pathway or mode of interaction is powerful and tends to remain unchanged. Danielle may become a bit quieter and Sylvia may speak up a bit more in a specific setting; however, the fundamental manner in which they interact doesn’t change. Danielle will always start the conversation and Sylvia will always look to Danielle to determine the acceptable level of disclosure and feedback in the relationship. Sydney may decide one day to be a bit more open with Betty and Betty may accept this temporary openness (a “phase” that Sydney is going through or “it’s what Sydney always does after he has gone on a retreat [or has drunk a couples of beers.]”) This central point of the window changes very slowly, even if there is a partial and temporary change in the dimensions of one or more of the four panes.
Alternative Structures and Dynamics
There are obviously many other ways in which to redesign the Johari Window. Further play with the design might hold some theoretical interest and I encourage others to engage in this restructuring process. I would suggest that the two alternative models I have offered each yield important insights about the nature of complex human interactions—far beyond the brief analyses I have already offered. I will be pointing to some of these additional insights as we turn in subsequent chapters to the other three quadrants, as well as to the two fundamental interpersonal processes: disclosure and feedback. Right now, however, before leaving the first quadrant, I turn in the next essay to the New Johari Window and to the additional insights that can be gained from looking at Quadrant One from multiple perspectives.
