AM22-PP18: Impact of Intergenerational Patterns and Transgenerational Transmissions of Traumas on Coaching Effectiveness

Parallel Papers Session 5
Sunday 3 July 10.15am-11.30am CEST
Paper Code: PP18
CE credits not available

Impact of Intergenerational Patterns and Transgenerational Transmissions of Traumas on Coaching Effectiveness

Presenter: Jan H. Schlüter

Abstract

This exploratory study examined the influence of intergenerational family patterns and transgenerational transmissions on coaching effectiveness. It specifically focused on the potential impact of coaches’ intergenerational patterns on their countertransference risks and development of coaching resources. Fifteen executive coaches were socioanalytically interviewed with a focused genogram and a self-as-instrument approach to understand the impact of intergenerational patterns and underlying family dynamics on coaching effectiveness. Results indicated a relationship between these factors and coaching effectiveness. This was especially the case with regard to the development of functional and adaptive coping behaviour rather than transmitting dysfunctional, maladaptive behaviour only. Analysing and debriefing live coaching situations with a focus on potential countertransference reactions would further validate these findings in future research.

Given the results of this study, it seems essential to integrate the reflection of intergenerational patterns and related countertransference risks into the training and supervision of coaches.

The session will take the results of this practical study as a starting point for an interactive conversation around the themes:

■ Transgenerational Transmissions: stories of resilience or trauma?

■ Countertransference risks related to intergenerational patterns

■ Practical application of the methodical approach in coaching and supervision settings