An analogy is drawn between the dynamics of interpersonal relationships and the relations of health educators to the health education profession. Recommended is the use of a 54-item questionnaire, the Fundamental Interpersonal Relationship Orientation - Behavior (FIRO-B), to determine what behavior a respondent expresses toward others and what behavior is expected from others. This introspective exercise was used to determine how those involved in health education feel about their work, how they would improve the professional status of their occupation, and what can be done to improve professionalism in health education. Assuming that each individual wishes to fulfill personal needs for inclusion, control, and affection or emotional involvement, it is suggested that low levels of professional satisfaction can be due to deficiencies in these dimensions just as interpersonal incompatability can be attributed to a lack of mutual need satisfaction. Characteristics of a profession are discussed as they relate to the satisfaction of these needs. (PBS/JD)