Stroking
A part of Transactional Analysis
Dorothy Jongeward and Philip Seyer observed, “People need strokes for their sense of survival and well-being on the job.”
Stroke
Stroke means to move your hand gently over something or somebody. It originated from the studies of babies' needs for physical affection for complete psychological development.
Strokes are exchanged when two person interacts with each other. It is a unit of recognition.
People seek recognition in interaction with others.
Therefore it is defined as any act implying recognition of another’s presence. A person’s presence can be recognised through both verbal and non-verbal means.
Types of Stroking
Positive
That makes one feel good. For example, Some words of recognition, affection, and a pat on the back. It can be unconditional and conditional.
Unconditional People do not do anything for this stroke. I’m so glad that you are working with our company.
Conditional When someone did or performed a good job. When someone achieves the sales target then he gets the recognition for it from the manager.
Negative
That makes one feel bad. For example, Criticism, hating, scolding.
Unconditional It is destructive, hurtful or a form of personal attack. I wish I had never appointed you.
Conditional I don’t like the report you prepared let me show you how to prepare one.
Mixed
It is a combination of both positive and negative. For example, You did a great job despite your limited experience.
Conclusion
The manager should give a positive stroke to his/her subordinate to motivate and form better interpersonal relationships.