THE JOHARI WINDOW MODEL/THE FOUR QUADRANTS

Definition:
The Johari Window Model is a
technique developed by American
psychologists Joseph Lift and Harry
Ingham in 1955. This is used for the
purpose of improving self-awareness
within an individual and enhance its
perception to others. The Johari
Window Model is composed of 4
quadrants or window panes, wherein
each four window panes signifies
personal information, feelings,
motivation and whether that
information is known or unknown to
oneself or others in four viewpoints.

THE FOUR QUADRANTS:

1. Open Area or Arena
This area represents information which you know about yourself as well as the
things others know about you, which includes behavior, feelings, emotions, etc. The
communication within this area is more effective and dynamic since the process of
“feedback solicitation” or the act of understanding and listening to the feedback from
another person is present. Through this way the open area can be increased
horizontally decreasing the blind spot and can also be increased downwards through an
open communication, action, exposure, and appearance towards others.
Example:
For instance, you are sharing your campaign, achievements, and status as a
student who wants to be a candidate for President in a council. The open area shows
the behaviour, motives, attitudes, knowledge skills of an individual that he is aware of
and is willing to share it with others.
2. Blind Self or Blind Spot
 This area represents information about yourselves that others know in a group
but you will be unaware of it. This includes information which others might see in you
but you might not see in yourself. Others may interpret yourselves differently than you
expect. Seeking feedback from others could reduce this area producing an efficient
communication.
Example:
Blind spot appears on how you behave. Showing a dominant attitude may not let
you notice this yourself, but in discussions and conversations others quickly notice how
you behave.

3. Hidden Area or Hidden Self

This area represents information, behavior, feelings, emotions, etc. which are
known to you but not to others in a group. The information appears to be hidden or
unknown from others, which are might done intentionally for the sake of security and
other personal matters. Moving information to open areas could reduce the hidden
area, producing an efficient communication.
Example:
Not showing yourself as you are because of your insecurity of others and the
surroundings, so you avoid to talk about your past experience which turned out to be
an insecurity for you. Example is experiencing failure from the past, and not sharing the
experience to the group due to the fear of judgement.

4. Unknown Areas or Unknown Self

This area represents information, behavior, feelings, emotions, etc. which are not
known by yourself as well as the others. This includes information about you that
neither you nor others know. Reducing this area requires an open communication in
order to communicate effectively.
Example:
Nobody knows that you have an absolute natural talent unless you or others
would discover it.
Summary:

Sources:
Communication Theory, (2019). Communication Theory, All About Theories for
Communication. The Johari Window Model in Communication Models, Group
Communication. Retrieved on August 29, 2021 from
https://www.communicationtheory.org/the-johari-window-model/

Comind Team, (2019). Workbook Leadership Development Program Leadership

Essentials. Module 5: Johari window & Personal skills. Retrieved on August 29,
2021 from https://www.comind.team/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Workbook-
Module-56.pdf