Transactional Analysis is a therapeutic and analytical system developed by Eric Berne. It focuses on personality, social interaction and therapeutic analysis. Part of the system, developed by Stephen Karpman M.D, looks at the games people play, and the roles they assume in these games. There are three basic roles in the drama triangle:
The Rescuer: We take on the role of rescuer when we perceive another person to be hopeless and helpless, in other words a victim. Furthermore, as part of this role we take full responsibility for that person’s well being, potentially making them feel as though they can’t help themselves. By adopting this role we keep others dependent on us and make them feel that they can’t cope without us.
The Persecutor: Persecutors start off as rescuers or victims. Because rescuers have assumed total responsibility for a victims well being, the victim will ask questions of the rescuer. Therefore, the rescuer tries to solve the questions and give answers, but becomes increasingly frustrated and maybe angry when the victim rejects all of these answers as being unhelpful. So, rescuers then begin to persecute the victim. So, this emphasises the fact that we shouldn’t try to rescue people who don’t need to be.
The Victim: Victims are often helped by rescuers when they haven’t asked to be. There are situations in life where people are victims, for example someone who has been burgled or assaulted, but in transactional analysis the victim contributes to the game. So, they pass all responsibility for their wellbeing to the rescuer, and don’t try to overcome this oppression. Therefore, victims may eventually persecute their rescuers.
Therefore, the origins of this game, according to Berne, begin with our families. Children can assume the role of victim with parents taking on the roles of rescuers/persecutors. Parents may decide on what friends a child should have, for example. So, if we want to avoid being a victim we must learn to be more assertive. Are you a victim or a rescuer in this game of life.
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About The Author
Steven Lucas MBACP MNCS (Prof Accred) is a professional counselling psychotherapist working in Northamptonshire. Read Full Bio.
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Disclaimer: I am not a doctor so this guide should not be considered a replacement for seeking medical advice. It is also not a substitute for obtaining therapy as other factors, such as trauma, need to be considered. There are pay per click ads on this site for which I may receive a small commission. This helps to pay for the running of the site. I do not endorse any of the products advertised.