Triangulation is a psychological idea frequently addressed within the
realms of relationships, communication, and behavior patterns.
Originating from Bowen’s Family Systems Theory, triangulation in
psychology describes the process in which a third individual is brought
into a dyadic relationship to alleviate stress or influence the
exchange. This occurrence is frequently seen in triangulation in family
dynamics, work environments, friendships, and also in romantic
partnerships. Grasping triangulation in relationships is essential for
identifying harmful patterns and promoting better communication,
highlighting the importance of understanding psychological effects of
triangulation and strategies for overcoming it.
Introduction to Triangulation in Psychology
Triangulation in psychology happens when someone brings in a third
party to mediate or shift focus in a relationship. Although it may
occasionally act as a short-term solution to conflicts it frequently
results in additional difficulties. The third party acts as a buffer or
ally, whether or unintentionally, resulting in power disparities and
emotional stress.
For instance, in triangulation in family dynamics, a child might be
positioned as a meditator for partners who shun direct dialogue,
unintentionally imposing excessive emotional strain on the child.
Understanding triangulation in relationships and its psychological
effects is essential for addressing harmful patterns and promoting
healthier interactions.
What is Triangulation?
In psychological language, triangulation in psychology refers to the
act of bringing in an outside individual to mediate, redirect or
strengthen interactions within a two-person relationship. This
frequently happens to reduce
anxiety
or influence results. Signs of triangulation in relationships may
manifest in different ways, such as seeking emotional support, forming
alliances, or avoiding conflict. Understanding these dynamics is
important for addressing the psychological effects of triangulation and
fostering healthier communication patterns.
Origins of the Concept
Dr. Murray Bowen initially introduced the concept of triangulation in
family dynamics within his Family Systems Theory. Bowen noted that
bringing in a third person can temporarily calm a relationship when
tension occurs. Nevertheless, this stability frequently incurs a price
as it hinders the direct resolution of fundamental problems and sustains
harmful behaviors.
Bowen’s research established the groundwork for comprehending how
family members unknowingly form triangles to alleviate tension. This
principle is now widely applied in triangulation in relationships and
has been utilized in various interpersonal and organizational
settings.
How it works:
Triangulation in psychology generally consists of three roles:
-
The initiator: The individual who forms the triangle, frequently to
evade conflict or to secure a benefit.
-
The target: The person who is marginalized or faced with a
disadvantage.
-
The third party: The individual introduced into the situation, who
might serve as a mediator, supporter, or target.
For instance, at a job an employee might seek a manger’s help to
resolve issues with a co-worker instead of confronting the coworker
directly. This may lead to friction and distrust among the team.
Types of Triangulation
Triangulation in psychology can take various forms:
-
Emotional Triangulation: This involves seeking emotional
affirmation or assistance from a third person rather than
confronting the matter directly with the parties involved.
-
Conflict Triangulation: Entails involving a third party in a
dispute to act as a mediator or ‘‘choose a side’’.
-
Manipulative Triangulation: When one individual employs a third
party to dominate, influence or exclude the other.
These patterns are commonly observed in triangulation in relationships
and triangulation in family dynamics, where they can lead to
psychological effects of triangulation, such as increased tension and
disrupted communication.
Case Study: Parent-Child Triangulation
A mother, frustrated with her partner, vents to their child rather than
confronting the problem head-on. The child, sensing a need to ‘choose
sides’ undergoes stress and confusion. This situation hampers healthy
resolution between the parents and imposes an unwarranted emotional
strain on the child.
The Psychological Impact of Triangulation
The Impact of triangulation in psychology on mental health and
relationships can be significant:
-
Stress and Anxiety: The third party might experience pressure or
become overwhelmed due to their involvement.
-
Loss of Trust: The disregarded party might sense abandonment or
separation.
-
Impaired Communication: Avoiding direct conflict resolution leads
to ongoing unresolved problems.
The study conducted by Minuchin et al. (1974) emphasizes that
triangulation in family dynamics leads to maladaptive behaviours in
children, such as
anxiety
and low self-worth. In the same vein, research on workplace dynamics
indicates that triangulation frequently results in lower morale and
diminished team unity (Pearson & Porath, 2009). These findings underline
the psychological effects of triangulation and its detrimental
consequences in various settings.
Triangulation in Romantic Relationships
Triangulation in relationships is especially detrimental, where it may
appear as:
-
Emotional Infidelity: Pursuing emotional closeness outside the
relationship to evade confronting problems with a partner.
-
Engaging others in conflicts: Relying on friends or relatives for
assistance during disputes, frequently intensifying tensions.
Case example: In a tense relationship, one partner shares their
complaints with a mutual friend rather than addressing them with their
partner. The friend, sensing a responsibility to intervene, gets caught
up in the couple’s problem. This dynamic fosters increased tension and
estrangement in the relationship.
Triangulation and Narcissistic Behavior
Narcissistic people frequently employ triangulation in psychology as a
manipulation strategy to:
Form partnerships and exclude identified dangers. Manipulate the
narrative by enlisting a third party as a “flying monkey” to uphold
their perspective.
Campbell and Foster (2007) state that triangulation in relationships is
a frequent tactic in narcissistic relationships, where the narcissist
aims to exert control and diminish other’s independence. Understanding
the psychological effects of triangulation in such situations is
important for recognizing and addressing manipulative behaviors.
Breaking the Triangulation Cycle
-
Identify the pattern: Being aware is the initial stage in tackling
triangulation.
-
Foster Direct Communication: Promote transparent discussions among
the main parties concerned.
-
Establish limits: The third party must firmly decline to choose
sides or intervene.
-
Pursue Expert Assistance: Therapists can promote improved
communication methods and conflict management.
Triangulation in Research and Therapy
Triangulation has a beneficial use in qualitative research as it
involves employing various data sources or techniques to corroborate
results. In therapy, recognizing and tackling triangulation can assist
families and couples in developing stronger, more straightforward
communication.
In structural
Family Therapy
, therapists aim to “detriangle” relationships by promoting direct
communication and reduce reliance on outside influences.
Conclusion:
Triangulation in psychology is an intricate process that can either
provide short-term stability in relationships or sustain detrimental
patterns. By acknowledging its indicators and influence, people can
promote healthier, more straightforward communication, resulting in
stronger and more harmonious relationships.