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This book presents a theory of interpersonal behavior based on a dynamic psychology of growth and development. FIRO stands for
Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation and also for the psychological tests designed to measure the fundamental interpersonal relations orientation of the individual. The thesis is that a characteristic FIRO derives from three need areas: inclusion, control, and affection. The characteristic orientation of the individual can be measured and these measurements can be used to predict the behavior of an individual in a group situation.
Through analysis of various studies of parent-child relationships, of groups, and of personality types as described by Freund, Fromm, and Horney, the author attempts to demonstrate a concordance of view which can be expressed within the three areas (inclusion, control, and affection). He postulates that the individual's interpersonal behavior is derived from his earliest interpersonal relationships with his parents and relates the three areas with the oral, anal, and phallic-oedipal stages of psychoanalytic theory.
In applying the FIRO theory to group relations, the author postulates and demonstrates that the greater the compatibility of the group, the greater its goal achievement. Compatibility is carefully explicated as matching reciprocity of FIRO in group members in the three need areas and in amount of originating, receiving, and exchange of activity in each area.
In the chapters dealing with the analysis of compatibility of group members and group interaction and development the author is more at home and more convincing than when dealing with the application of his theory to individual development, parent-child relations, and adolescence. However, the book contains many provocative ideas for consideration, particularly by the group therapist, the organizer or the committee member.