Basic Elements of the TCI-concept

4-factor model and dynamic balance

Every group is defined by the four factors: I (the individual), WE (the group interaction), IT (the task), the GLOBE (context). Appreciation and support of equilibrium among the I-We-It-factors in context represents the basis of the TCI group work.

It is the task of the TCI group leader to pay attention to the "dynamic balance" among the four factors.

Equilibrium between intellectual and emotional participation, exertion and relaxation, speaking, silence and activity are all a part of the dynamic balance.

The term "dynamic" means that balance is not static like a scale, but, similar to a bicycle, is part of the process.

The theme

The theme formulates the common task and the goal of the group work.  The theme of each work period is connected to the general course theme.  It ought to address the participants holistically, recognize where they are in their development, in order to take the next step. The theme should be general enough that all the participants can work with it and specific enough to provide orientation.

Participating leader

The leader considers himself to be part of the system. Thus he is both participant and leader. As participant he acts as a model according to the postulates, and he selectively and authentically adds his thoughts and feelings. As leader he senses, formulates and presents themes that will help the group process. He suggests possible structures and makes sure that they are maintained. He observes the balance among I, We, Theme and Globe.

The values and the view of mankind are formulated in the following "axioms":

  1. The individual is a psycho-biological unity. He is also part of the universe and is therefore both autonomous and interdependent. A person's autonomy increases the more he becomes aware of his interdependence with everyone and everything.
  2. All living entities and their growth and decline deserve to be respected. Respect for that which grows is the basis for all evaluating decisions. The humane is valuable; the inhumane is a threat to what is valuable.
  3. Making free decisions happens within provisory internal and external boundaries. It is possible to extend these boundaries.


Two general "postulates" arise from these values and from the request to recognize reality, not dogma, as an authority.

  1. Be aware of your own internal and external situation and make decisions responsibly taking both the other person and yourself into account. In short: be your own "chairperson!"
  2. Disturbances and passionate involvements take precedence. Look at them as a chance, and regard them as a sign of something that has been over-looked or repressed.


The "Auxiliary rules" are instructions for realizing the postulates that are based upon the axioms:

  1. Represent yourself when you speak; speak in the "I" form, and do not use "we" or "one".
  2. When you ask a question, say why you asked and what the question means to you. Speak for yourself and avoid an interview.
  3. Be authentic and selective in your communications! 
  4. Hold back on interpretations of others. You should express your personal reactions instead.
  5. Hold back on generalizations.
  6. When you say something about another person, also tell what it means to you.
  7. Private exchanges take priority. They interfere and are usually important.
  8. Only one person at a time should speak!


"Auxiliary rules help, when they help" (R. Cohn) and are not meant to be enforced as laws.