27/08/2026
Are You Caught in the Drama Triangle?
Do you ever find yourself rescuing others, feeling powerless, or becoming frustrated and critical?
In Transactional Analysis, a common relationship pattern known as the Drama Triangle was developed by Dr. Stephen Karpman. It describes three roles we may move into during stressful or emotionally charged situations.
🔺 Victim — “Nothing ever works out for me.”
Feeling powerless, helpless, or believing you have no choices.
🔺 Rescuer — “I’ll fix everything.”
Putting other people’s needs before your own, sometimes at the expense of your wellbeing.
🔺 Persecutor — “It’s all your fault.”
Responding with blame, criticism, or control, often when feeling hurt or overwhelmed.
The important thing to remember is:
These are roles, not identities.
You may move between these roles without realising it, especially when you feel stressed, threatened, or emotionally triggered.
Healing begins when we step out of the triangle and into our Adult Ego State—where we can communicate honestly, take responsibility for our own choices, set healthy boundaries, and respect the choices of others.
You don't have to rescue, blame, or surrender your power. You can choose a healthier response.
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September Healing Week: https://healforlife.com.au/adults/adult-healing-program/