The Transcendent Function in Organizational Change

Abstract

The conflict inherent in organizational change is explored from the perspective of Jungian psychology. The transcendent function, which is the symbol-creating capacity of the psyche, is the process through which the opposition of conscious and unconscious forces can be integrated and resolved so that organization members may experience a positive change. Manifestations of the unconscious are illustrated with examples of dreams and the underused psychologicalfunctions. Examples also demonstrate how the tension between the conscious and the unconscious can be maintained until a new level of understanding, a creative resolution of conflict, or a transformation in perception occurs. The author discusses how consultants may use this approach in team building and other organization development work.