Johari Window

The Johari Window is a psychological tool created by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham in 1955 to help individuals better understand their relationships with themselves and others. It is a simple yet powerful concept that consists of a four-quadrant grid which represents four different areas of knowledge about oneself.

Open Area:

The open area, also known as the arena, is the part of an individual’s personality that is known to both themselves and others. It includes information, feelings, behaviors, attitudes, and opinions that are openly shared and understood by everyone involved. This area reflects transparency and healthy communication between individuals.

Blind Area:

The blind area represents aspects of an individual that are unknown to themselves but are apparent to others. It consists of traits, behaviors, or attitudes that individuals may be unaware of, yet others can easily observe and perceive. Feedback from others is crucial in order to expand the blind area and enhance self-awareness.

Hidden Area:

The hidden area, also referred to as the facade or hidden self, encompasses information, emotions, secrets, or opinions that an individual intentionally keeps hidden from others. It reflects private thoughts, fears, weaknesses, or past experiences that individuals may be uncomfortable or unwilling to share. Building trust and creating a safe space for disclosure is necessary to reduce the size of the hidden area.

Unknown Area:

The unknown area represents the unconscious or undiscovered aspects of an individual’s personality. It consists of hidden potential, repressed memories, or latent talents that are not known to either the individual or others. Exploration, self-reflection, and personal growth can help expand this area over time.

The Johari Window encourages individuals to increase their self-awareness and improve communication by expanding their open area and reducing their hidden and blind areas. With increased knowledge about oneself and enhanced mutual understanding, individuals can develop more effective relationships and productive interactions.