Disposition Mapping
If we encounter persistent friction or value-laden tensions and map the dispositions (e.g. beliefs, values, and intentions) across affected perspectives, we tend to reveal deeper logic, reduce blame, and enable more coherent yet plural action.
When teams experience recurring tensions, they often sense something deeper is at play, beyond policy, process, or personality. These tensions are usually rooted in different dispositions: lived beliefs, value commitments, and patterned responses to uncertainty. Disposition Mapping helps surface the constellation of these stances so that people can engage them reflectively rather than defensively.
How to use this pattern
A practice for mapping the value-laden field behind surface conflict:
Start with a Named Tension
Invite a team member to voice a tension they feel caught in—preferably one that’s been recurring or emotionally charged.
Identify Key Voices
Ask: Who else is entangled in this? Name not just people, but stances—roles, logics, traditions, assumptions.
Surface Beliefs
For each voice: What must this actor believe for their position or action to make sense?
Write these in lived, specific language.
Name Underlying Values
Ask: What is this belief trying to protect, promote, or safeguard? Values might include safety, clarity, equity, speed, trust, etc.
Map the Disposition Field
Visually arrange beliefs and values into a constellation, not as a cluster to harmonise, but as coexisting forces. Show tensions, dependencies, and reinforcing loops.
Frame the Shared Aspiration
Ask: What is everyone trying to care for in their own way? Find a shared hope that can anchor future coherence.
Name the Reflective Tension(s)
Articulate the stretch using “pull” language:
“A pull between relational care and institutional consistency”
“A tension between local empowerment and strategic clarity”
Affordances
Turns hidden beliefs into discussable patterns
Surfaces emotional and philosophical roots of conflict
Mistaking surface behaviour for intent or treating tensions as errors to fix
Stances
The Disposition Cartographer: maps patterns of belief and value, not just opinion
The Valuer: listens for what matters beneath the surface
The Coherence Seeker: looks for alignment without erasure
The Divergence Holder: ensures multiple truths are visible
The Inquiry Steward: carries the named tension into future work