The American School
Up to this point, in my analysis of Quad One, I have tried to establish a foundation of common reference. I have interwoven several different perspectives on interpersonal relationships and broader societal forces that operate on and influence the manifestation of Quadrant One behavior. I now turn (as I will in each of the following essays) to an analysis of differences rather than similarities in perspective with regard to interpersonal relationships. The three perspectives (or schools of thought) speak to the richness and complexity of human relationships and to the value inherent in keeping one’s own model of interpersonal dynamics open to alternative and reflective dialogue.
I turn first to the American School – which in some ways “owns” the first quadrant of Luft’s Johari Window. There is a “big Quad One” in the American school. It is as big as “all outdoors.” From an American perspective, our psyches are nothing but Quad One. We are wide-open ranch houses. When you enter the psychic homes of America you immediately see everything. There are no hidden rooms, cellars or attics. Everything is out front and available for inspection: “You come right on in and make yourself comfortable. Nothing will surprise you here and you are as welcome as can be. What do you want? I’ll get it for you. Just speak up!”
