Triadic Analysis: A Conceptual tool for Clinical Sociologists

This paper explores the utility of triadic analysis as a conceptual tool for clinical sociologists. Departing from earlier research on patterns of interaction, triads are emphasized over dyads as the structural basis of both microand macro-processes, and interdependency is recognized as a decisive influence in the formation and dynamics of triads. Clinical examples and applications of triadic analysis suggest that stress and conflict within a dyad prompt its members to seek out a third party to neutralize the tension. A third party functions to stabilize the dyad, in some cases as participant in a new dyadic coalition within the triad. Until the original dyadic stress is effectively lowered, third parties are continuously sought. This predictable outreach creates networks that stabilize dyads and relationship systems. Delineating representative patterns of interdependency within and between triads can deepen our understanding of a variety of social forms and processes (Wolff, 1950). Departing from most earlier sociological research on patterns of interaction, this paper suggests that triads are the irreducible foundation of small group dynamics, and that groups are composed of interdependent and interlocking triads. Group dynamics are viewed as being shaped and reshaped by the continuous shift of dyadic coalitions between and among triads. Triads are most readily activated in conflict, stress, and contingency situations. Triadic relations are more clearly illustrated by clinical data than by data from community settings, primarily because of the higher levels of dependency *An earlier version of this paper was presented at the 1986 annual meeting of the Eastern Sociological