The Drama Triangle
Escaping the soap operas in life and at work
Imagine a stage where three actors are trapped in an endless loop of blame, criticize, and rescue.
This isn’t a plot twist from a soap opera; it’s The Drama Triangle, a psychological model introduced by Stephen Karpman in the 1960s. At this stage, roles are rigidly defined: the Persecutor, who blames and criticizes; the Victim, who feels powerless and seeks rescue; and the Rescuer, who swoops in to save the day but often perpetuates the cycle.
This dramatic interplay can feel compelling, almost addictive. Yet, despite its allure, it’s a trap that stifles personal growth and healthy relationships.
Breaking the Cycle
To escape The Drama Triangle, first recognize your role in the play.
Are you the Rescuer who dives into problems uninvited, only to be met with resentment?
Perhaps you’re the Persecutor, quick to criticize and blame others for their shortcomings.
Or maybe you’re the Victim, stuck in a mindset of helplessness and dependency. Understanding these roles is the first step.
Here’s a liberating truth: you have the power to rewrite the script.
Escaping the Drama Triangle begins with stepping out of the roles; exiting the triangle involves moving from blame to empowerment.
Shift from a mindset of blame to one of accountability. Rather than criticizing, offer constructive feedback. Move away from rescuing and toward empowering others to find their solutions.
It’s about transforming from playing a part in the Drama Triangle to becoming a proactive participant in a growth and mutual respect narrative.
The New Script
In the revised playbook, the roles are more about collaboration than conflict. Instead of rescuing, become a coach. Offer support, but encourage self-reliance. Move from blame to understanding, from criticism to constructive dialogue.
The Drama Triangle might be dramatic and engaging, but it’s ultimately a cycle of dysfunction.
By stepping out of these roles and into a new script, you can exit the triangle; you transform your personal and professional life into genuine connection and growth.
So, take a bow and leave the Drama Triangle behind. The spotlight is brighter on the stage of empowerment.
It would mean the world if you commented with a word or two on how this landed for you. -bryan
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Thanks for spending a moment with me. - Bryan