Breakdowns to breakthroughs: an ontological approach to thought loops and growth edges

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1108/03055720810917688
Pages421-431
Date24 October 2008
Published date24 October 2008
AuthorKaren Staib Duffy
Subject MatterInformation & knowledge management
Breakdowns to breakthroughs:
an ontological approach to
thought loops and growth edges
Karen Staib Duffy
Quantum Development Coaching, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Abstract
Purpose – This paper aims to focus on an ontological approach to executive coaching and
transformational learning.
Design/methodology/approach The paper is largely drawn from the methodology for
ontological coaching designed by Newfield Network. Concepts are applied in actual coaching
examples.
Findings – The paper finds that through a transformational process of reflection and deliberate
change, we can create a new coherence of self to meet and transcend challenging circumstances. This
is consistent with double-loop learning.
Originality/value – This work explains in concrete terms and examples how the ontological
approach can be applied to expand knowledge and engage in transformational learning.
Keywords Coaching, Learningmethods, Transformational leadership, Breakdowns,
Individual psychology
Paper type Conceptual paper
Introduction
This article focuses on the ontological approach to transformational learning in the
face of breakdowns. Specifically, it looks at two types of breakdowns (thought loops
and growth edges) and describes two ontological models that are the basis for the
ontological approach in coaching (observer/actions/results and language/
body/emotions). Concrete examples of the application of this methodology are
presented from actual executive coaching situations, which illustrate how the focus on
language, body and emotions can offer an effective learning tool. The resulting creation
of a new paradigm allows movement through breakdown, out of the old coherence into
a new coherence with the experience of breakthrough and the opportunity for
continued success and progress. While this methodology is explored primarily from
the perspective of an individual, it may also be applied to larger systems, groups and
organizations.
Breakdowns, thought loops, and growth edges
Breakdowns
Everyone has them, both as individuals and as part of organizations and communities.
Breakdowns are spaces in which “who we are” as an individual or organization is no
longer effective in successfully meeting the challenges of our external and internal
environments. Breakdowns are points of frustration and sometimes suffering. An
individual or organization is not meeting expectations with regard to what is wanted or
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at
www.emeraldinsight.com/0305-5728.htm
Breakdowns to
breakthroughs
421
VINE: The journal of information and
knowledge management systems
Vol. 38 No. 4, 2008
pp. 421-431
qEmerald Group Publishing Limited
0305-5728
DOI 10.1108/03055720810917688

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT