For example, if the stimulus is Parent to Child, the response must be Child to Parent, or the transaction is 'crossed' , and there will be a problem between sender and receiver. If a crossed transaction occurs, there is an ineffective communication. Worse still either or both parties will be upset. In order for the relationship to continue smoothly the agent or the respondent must rescue the situation with a complementary transaction. In serious break-downs, there is no chance of immediately resuming a discussion about the original subject matter.
Attention is focused on the relationship.
The discussion can only continue constructively when and if the relationship is mended. Here are some simple clues as to the ego state sending the signal. N.B. beware of cultural differences in body-language or emphases that appear 'Parental'. Child Physical - emotionally sad expressions, despair, temper tantrums, whining voice, rolling eyes, shrugging shoulders, teasing, delight, laughter, speaking behind hand, raising hand to speak, squirming and giggling. I see, I believe, in my opinion.