Dynamics of the Educational Triad

Abstract

This article describes professional, developmental, and interpersonal tensions that can arise during the field experience in the educational triad formed by the relationships among the intern, the supervisor, and the faculty field advisor. It identifies conscious and unconscious sources of such tensions and clarifies the ways in which the dynamics of triads can complicate the process. The article then describes the potential for counterproductive acting out if such tensions are not identified, understood, and managed effectively. A framework for identifying and resolving triadic tensions is presented, and numerous case illustrations are offered.