Plan analysis

The vertical plan analysis is a diagnostical tool that is used in psychotherapy to assess the needs of clients in relationships. Plans are seen as an expression of different motivational schemes.

Note: This is a modified and extremely brief version, it differs from the original idea!

Think of a situation in which you had the feeling of being in shortage of time. The I-must-have-list might give you ideas for such situations. Note: It is important that you think of a specific situation.

Please remember to formulate everything in command form! It might seem strange at first, but it will help you to not lose the focus.

1. Chose a sample behavior. What thoughts accompany the behavior? What feelings are present in that moment? In which situations is this schema activated?

2. Formulate a sub-goal. What emotions and impulses are triggered? What is achieved by behaving that way?

3. Formulate an overall goal. What self-representation can be derived from the behavior?

4. Formulate a "plan" for what you want to achieve (unconsciously) with your behavior. Which appeal to yourself can be deduced from the behavior?

5. What is the need behind the plan? Should something positive be achieved? Or is something negative avoided by behaving this way?

Examples of needs to be achieved
Intimacy / loyalty, altruism, solidarity, recognition / acknowledgment, autonomy, status, power, control, education / understanding, diversity, self-confidence, self-reward OR

Possible consequences to be avoided
Loneliness / isolation, contempt, humiliation / embarrassment, blame / criticism, dependency / autonomy loss, injury / stress, weakness / loss of control, failure, helplessness

Example: "I have to write so many emails"

BEHAVIOUR "Write emails to the working group!"

SUBGOAL "Be a reliable member of your working group!"

OVERALL GOAL "Be responsible!"

PLAN "Hold your status in the group!" Or "support others!"
NEED Status / altruism / avoid criticism