Johari window

Johari Window is a cognitive psychological tool that is used to help people better understand their interpersonal communication and relationships. It was created by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham in 1955 and is named after a combination of their first names. The Johari Window model is used in self-help groups and corporate settings as a heuristic exercise. It is represented as a window with four quadrants that are used to represent self-awareness, mutual understanding among individuals within a group, and the communication process.

Quadrants of the Johari Window

The Johari Window is divided into four quadrants, each representing different parts of an individual's self according to what is known by the person and by others.

Open Area or Arena

This quadrant represents traits and information that are known both by the individual and by others. It includes behaviors, skills, and attitudes that are observable and known to one's peers and oneself.

Blind Area or Blind Spot

This quadrant contains things about ourselves that others see but we are unaware of. Feedback from others can help increase the open area by reducing the blind spot.

Hidden Area or Facade

This quadrant represents information, feelings, and experiences that we know about ourselves but choose not to reveal to others. This can include sensitivities, hidden agendas, fears, and manipulative intentions.

Unknown Area

This quadrant represents the aspects of ourselves that are unknown to both ourselves and others. It can include unconscious motives, thoughts, and feelings. Discovery or disclosure can reduce this area and increase the open area.

Applications

The Johari Window model is used in a variety of settings, including personal development, team development, and organizational development. It helps individuals and groups:

• Improve communication
• Enhance self-awareness
• Increase mutual understanding within a team
• Develop trust among team members
• Facilitate constructive personal and interpersonal development

Limitations

While the Johari Window is a useful tool for understanding interpersonal dynamics, it has limitations. It relies on the willingness of individuals to give and receive feedback openly. It also assumes that self-disclosure is always beneficial, which may not be the case in all cultural or organizational contexts.

See Also

• Interpersonal communication
• Self-awareness
• Feedback (communication)
• Personal development