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A frame, as a condition of relationships, is permeated by modes of interaction between its elements. According to Bateson, three main types of differentiation between elements can be distinguished: the pattern of symmetrical, complementary, and reciprocal relationships (Bateson, 2017: 100). These “schismogenic sequences,” as they are called, create relational dynamics that maintain system equilibrium while differentiating the systems from one another (Bateson, 2017: [page missing]).
Symmetrical differentiation concerns individuals or groups that display the same behaviorpatterns. Such a relationship can become competitive, where the action of one group to a greater degree provokes an equally greater response from the other group (Bateson, 2017: 128). These relationships can easily escalate into hostility, rivalry, or even system collapse if behavioral patterns are reinforced by both sides (Bateson, 2017: 101). Examples of such behaviors include domination, imposition, a sense of injustice, resistance, loyalty, and violence. In symmetrical cases, each group, feeling that its rights have been violated, may punish the other through conflict.
Complementary differentiation refers to interactions involving different behaviors between elements or groups, occurring progressively (Bateson, 2017: 101). Some examples of complementary interaction pairs are: submission and dominance, victim and perpetrator, high status and low status, loyalty and resistance, and strength and weakness.
Reciprocal differentiation occurs when a relationship is asymmetric, although symmetry is restored through a series of interactions where the pattern appears to internally balance without leading to further differentiation (Bateson, 2017: 102).
Functionally, symmetrical systems are opposite to complementary ones. No system behaves purely and exclusively as symmetrical or complementary; rather, both types of behavioralpatterns exist in varying proportions (Bateson, 2017: 103). In an extremely symmetrical relationship, the emergence of complementary interactions can stabilize the system (Bateson, 2017: 103). Conversely, a symmetrical rivalry can dampen an excessively complementary relationship (Bateson, 2017: 103). In some cases, when complementary patterns create stability, a dependent relationship may emerge between the two groups (Bateson, 2017: 103).
Regarding reciprocal patterns, they seem to exert less influence and occur less frequently than symmetrical patterns, as symmetrical schismogenesis is stronger (Bateson, 2017: 104).
It is important to note that human systems in competitive interactions appear to engage in these processes with the expectation that, after full involvement, a sense of relief and release of the dynamics will occur (Bateson, 2017: 140). Mathematically, an exponential curve following an upward trajectory eventually appears to decline, as it cannot continue rising indefinitely (Bateson, 2017: 141).
Therefore, when attempting to interpret and describe a system, it is essential to clarify the schismogenic communications used by elements, individuals, and groups, the frames and their actions, and the processes within the frame that sometimes impose psychological conditions on individuals to behave in specific ways, such as control factors of schismogenesis (Bateson, 2017: 154).
The communication patterns of system members are important to understand because, if the prerequisites of their relationship are perceived differently, conditions may arise for the emergence of a double bind in their communication (Bateson, 2017: 334).
Bateson, G. (2017). Steps to an Ecology of Mind [Βήματα για μια Οικολογία του Νου]. Thessaloniki: University Studio Press.