The Pfeiffer Book of Successful Communication Skill-Building Tools

Chapter 25. Analyzing and Increasing Open Behavior: The Johari Window

Philip G. Hanson

Goals

• To describe open and closed behavior in terms of the Johari Window.

• To identify facilitating and inhibiting forces which may affect the exchange of feedback.

• To encourage the development of increased open behavior in the group through facilitated feedback.

Group Size

Eight to twelve participants. Several subgroups may be directed simultaneously.

Time Required

Approximately two and one-half hours.

Materials

• A copy of the Johari Window Self-Rating Sheet for each participant.

• A pencil for each participant.

• A copy of the Johari Window Model Theory Sheet for the facilitator.

• Newsprint and felt-tipped markers for each subgroup.

• A newsprint flip chart and a felt-tipped marker for the facilitator's use.

• Masking tape for posting newsprint.

• A copy of the Johari Window Model (optional).

Physical Setting

A room large enough to accommodate the group or subgroups and to allow subgroups to work comfortably and with minimal noise distraction.

Process

1. The facilitator begins with a lecturette to the total group on giving and receiving feedback, based on the Johari Window Model Theory Sheet. Central to the lecturette, the facilitator will emphasize how decreasing the "Blind Spot" (the area unknown to self) and decreasing the "Facade" (the area unknown to others) will increase the "Arena" (the area known to everyone), thereby fostering openness. The facilitator will also emphasize the role of meaningful feedback in this process. ...