What is Karpman’s Drama Triangle?

Understanding Toxic Relationship Patterns

The Drama Triangle, developed by psychologist Stephen Karpman, is a model that explains unhealthy relationship dynamics where individuals take on one of three roles: Victim, Rescuer, or Persecutor.

This pattern often plays out in dysfunctional relationships, leading to conflict, emotional distress, and codependency.

    • Feels helpless, powerless, and stuck.

    • Seeks sympathy rather than solutions.

    • Avoids responsibility for change.

    • Feels the need to fix or save others.

    • Enables the Victim by solving their problems.

    • Often neglects their own needs in the process.

    • Blames, criticises, or controls others.

    • Uses anger or authority to dominate.

    • Lacks empathy and offers no real solutions.

Diagram of the Karpman Drama Triangle illustrating roles of Persecutor, Rescuer, and Victim. Each role includes associated behaviors and characteristics. Persecutor is aggressive and judgmental, Rescuer appears self-sacrificing, and Victim is manipulative and needy.

How the Drama Triangle Works

People often shift between these roles unconsciously. For example:

  • A Victim may seek help from a Rescuer, but later resent them for being controlling.

  • A Rescuer may become frustrated and turn into a Persecutor, blaming the Victim.

  • A Persecutor may feel guilty and shift into the Rescuer role.

These role changes keep the cycle going, preventing real healing or resolution.

Breaking Free from the Drama Triangle

To move beyond these toxic patterns, individuals can adopt The Empowerment Triangle (also called The Winner’s Triangle):

  • Victim → Becomes a Creator – Takes responsibility and finds solutions.

  • Rescuer → Becomes a Coach – Offers support without enabling.

  • Persecutor → Becomes a Challenger – Encourages growth with constructive feedback.

Recognising the Drama Triangle in relationships is the first step to breaking free. By shifting to healthier roles, we can foster more positive and balanced interactions. Therapy can help navigate these changes and build stronger, healthier relationships.