Force Field Analysis
Mixed and interacting, these positive and negative elements comprise our immediate systematic portrayal (“topological map”). Most of this appraisal process aligns with Lewin’s force field analysis; however, I add the level of activity to the analysis alongside strength. I would suggest that one of Lewin’s forces has an impact on our movement toward a goal, not only because they are strong, but also because they are actively involved in the field (rather than remaining passive or inert).
I also consider another factor regarding the elements in an anticipated environment. We must take into account not only valence, strength, and activity, but also the expected duration of each element. Returning to Lewin’s force field analysis, this would mean that consideration is given to the “staying power” of each force. Lewin does take this factor partially into account when he considers the amiability (or vulnerability of each force to being changed. How stable are the positive forces, and can they readily be eliminated or reduced in strength? How resistant are the negative forces to being eliminated or reduced in strength?
In the case of a polystatic analysis, one looks not just at the ‘staying power” of a specific element if subjected to changing conditions, but also more simply to the probability that this element will “hang around” for a while, whether or not pressures of change are impinging on this element. When we are anticipating the environment that we face in the coming moment, we might not have time to assess its “changeability” but we do want to know if it is likely to still be present for some time.
As a coach, we can be of value to our client in helping them engage in a polystatic force field analysis that begins with the identification of an upcoming challenging situation and a desired outcome when facing this challenge. The analysis then turns to identifying positive and negative elements, levels of strength and activity, and, finally, the anticipated duration of each major element. With this cognitively based analysis in hand (and mind), one’s client is prepared to make appropriate and accurate appraisals of the actual environment in which they are about to operate. Their anticipations are likely to be reliant on these appraisals rather than the inevitable emotional biases the client holds when preparing to face the challenge.
Cross-Impact Analysis
Cross-Impact Analysis can be of value to coaching clients in anticipating their own future. I have modified this analytic tool to make it compatible with a polystatic perspective. Along with my coaching client, I prepare a matrix on which all the major elements in a system are placed on both the left side and at the top of the matrix. Together with my client, I then examine the relationship between one element and each of the other elements to determine the extent to which the valence, strength, activity level, and duration (VSAD) level of the first element influences the VSAD of the second element. Does the first element assist (up arrow) or block (down arrow) the second element—or do they operate independently of one another (“0”)? And how strong and sustained is this assistance or blockage (multiple arrows)?
This same analysis is conducted with each of the other elements as they relate to all of the other elements in the matrix. Not only does the cross-impact consideration of each element with the other elements provide a client with a clearer sense of the interdependence of the system’s elements, a cross-impact consideration also provides an even broader, systemic portrait. If the matrix is filled with up-arrows, then we find the portrayal of a highly “enmeshed” system in which action taken about any one element in the system will spread quickly to other elements—a “pinball effect”. Conversely, if the matrix contains many down arrows, then a condition of “win-lose” is being portrayed. The elements operate in opposition to one another. As a result, one must carefully prioritize one’s actions, for whatever actions one takes, it is likely to negatively impact other parts of the system.
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