Structural dynamics is a theory of communication which proposes that conversations can be understood by looking at their underlying structure rather than their substantive content. By using a structural lens, we can see patterns of interaction in a neutral, non-judgmental way, and change our response to navigate interpersonal dynamics more effectively.
The theory of structural dynamics emerged from a study made possible by a grant from the National Science Foundation to co-Principal Investigators, Drs. David Kantor and William Lehr, along with a team of Boston College students in the 1970s. The results of this study are described in Kantor and Lehr's book, Inside the Family (1975), Jossey-Bass. Dr. David Kantor Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and thought leader in family systems psychology, went on to found the Kantor Family Institute. During his time at Monitor Group he refined the model for use in work settings as described in his book, Reading the Room: Group Dynamics for Coaches and Leaders (2012) Jossey-Bass Inc., where he presents the model as we know it today.
You are taking an abbreviated version of the assessment, involving 9 of 40 total scenarios.
Once you press start, you will answer questions grouped into 9 common workplace scenarios divided into 2 sections. Each question under a scenario describes a typical way a person might respond to the workplace situation. You will be asked how likely or unlikely it is that you would respond in that particular way. There are no wrong or right ways to respond to each scenario. The assessment results reflect your ability to accurately judge how likely you would respond to the situations presented in the scenarios.
Additionally, for each workplace scenario presented, you will be asked how low, medium, or high-stakes it is for you. In low-stakes situations, you are able to use your full range of behavioural approaches, you are relaxed and comfortable. In medium-stakes situations, the temperature is rising, you may notice some discomfort and your behavioural range becomes diminished. In high-stakes situations there is intense discomfort and you may experience involuntary responses, such as elevated pulse, sweaty palms or a change in your tone of voice. These high-stakes responses may not be outwardly visible to others but are noticeable to you.
Low, medium, and high-stakes responses are all part of normal human behavior but are important to notice when you think of each scenario to get the most accurate reading of your profile in different situations. There is no wrong or right answer regarding what situations you identify as low, medium or high-stakes. Do the best you can by imagining each scenario to rate it accordingly.
Some scenarios may appear similar to others but the context has been changed e.g., from working with peers and colleagues to working in a leadership role
At the end of this demo you'll have the opportunity to upgrade to an annual bMaps license which will allow you to complete the remaining stages of the profile.