Windows of Openness to Interaction: Towards Constructive Transdisciplinary Environmental Research and Management

To support constructive interaction in a transdisciplinary environmental research and management project, we developed the theory of windows of openness to interaction. Inspired by the window of tolerance concept, this theory links increasing openness to decreasing dysregulation. It introduces two nested windows and identifies a specific zone of constructive interaction in which participants are sufficiently open to collaborate. Our framework is based on a triangulation of in-depth interviews with participants in a transdisciplinary biodiversity project, expert consultations, and literature review. From this, we identified dynamic patterns that shape participants' experiences and interaction needs, particularly in relation to hypo-arousal and hyperarousal. Building on these insights, we formulated interaction needs and practical approaches that help participants move toward greater openness and collaboration. The framework can be used to recognize and address moments of dysregulation or openness, and to foster meaningful conversations about how participants' experiences influence constructive interaction in transdisciplinary environmental research and management settings.