At the heart of Transactional Analysis (TA) lies a powerful concept—life scripts. These unconscious life plans are formed in childhood, shaped by early decisions, interactions with caregivers, and the messages we absorb from our environment. Script analysis helps us bring these underlying narratives to light and offers a path to rewrite the limiting beliefs we’ve carried for years.
What Is Script Analysis?
Script Analysis is a core component of Transactional Analysis theory developed by Dr Eric Berne. It refers to the process of uncovering the unconscious “life plan” that a person develops early in life, often before the age of seven. These life plans—called scripts—guide how we see ourselves, others, and the world.
Scripts can deeply influence our relationships, career choices, emotional health, and even how we respond to stress. Many of us unknowingly play out these scripts repeatedly, leading to repeated disappointments or self-sabotage.
Common Script Beliefs
Scripts are not always verbal. Often, they show up as emotional patterns or gut-level beliefs, such as:
– “I must always please others to be loved.”
– “I’m not good enough.”
– “Success isn’t meant for people like me.”
– “I always end up alone.”
These beliefs may have helped us survive emotionally as children but can become barriers in adulthood.
How Script Analysis Works
In script analysis, trained professionals—often counsellors or psychotherapists trained in TA—work with clients to uncover the origins of these scripts. This process involves:
– Identifying early parental messages (both verbal and non-verbal)
– Exploring decisions the client made in response to those messages
– Recognising recurring patterns in behaviour and relationships
– Using TA models such as Ego States, Drivers, and Rackets to understand internal dynamics
By becoming aware of these patterns, clients can begin to make new, conscious decisions that align with who they are today—rather than who they felt they had to be as a child.
Script Analysis in Therapy: A Safe Space for Redecision
Many TA-trained therapists combine Script Analysis with Redecision Therapy, where clients are gently guided to revisit pivotal childhood moments and make new empowering decisions in a safe, therapeutic setting. This can lead to lasting change in how individuals think, feel, and behave.
At TAAS, we recognise that script analysis is not just a technique—it’s a profound journey of self-discovery. By understanding the script, clients often gain deep insights into their struggles and begin to heal from long-standing emotional wounds.
Script Analysis in Organisations
Script patterns don’t just show up in therapy rooms—they appear in boardrooms too. In organisational settings, leaders and teams may unknowingly act out scripts that affect communication, leadership, and workplace culture. TA-trained consultants can use script analysis to enhance team dynamics, promote healthier communication, and support personal growth in professional environments.
Why Script Analysis Matters in Singapore
In a fast-paced, achievement-driven society like Singapore, many individuals find themselves stuck in cycles of burnout, anxiety, or strained relationships—without realising these are rooted in outdated life scripts. Script analysis provides a framework to pause, reflect, and rewrite.
Final Thoughts
Script analysis offers individuals a chance to reflect on the stories they’ve been living—and choose to create new ones. At TAAS, we continue to train professionals, promote TA awareness, and support the healing journeys of individuals and communities through powerful tools like Script Analysis.