Kahler's drivers

Explanations > Motivation > Kahler's drivers

Kahler (1975) identified five common drivers that motivate us, and which can be at the root of dysfunctional behaviors. These are commonly framed as the Transactional Analysis drivers, although they can be used stand-alone.

Here are some structured notes on each of these:

• Be Perfect
• Be Strong
• Hurry Up
• Please Others
• Try Hard

Any of these can be rooted in early admonishment from teachers and parents who are seeking to help the child become socially functional, but perhaps do not offer sufficient guidance and praise for adequate behavior, thus leaving the child over-doing things.

In reasonable quantities, these drivers are effective in creating functioning and successful adults. When people do not know when to stop, then dysfunctional behavior can set in, causing stress and consequent further coping.

So what?

Recognize these drivers in yourself and others and treat them accordingly. Ask questions such as:

• Who says I must be perfect (etc.)?
• What is 'enough'? Who says what 'enough' is?
• What will happen if I do not obey these drivers? What bad things will happen? What good things will happen?

See also

Ellis' Irrational Beliefs, Stress

Kahler, T. (1975). Drivers—The Key to the Process Script.  Transactional Analysis Journal, 5:3

http://www.taibikahlerassociates.com/PTMvsPCM.phtml