Stephen Karpman

Stephen Karpman is best known for creating the "Karpman Drama Triangle," a psychological model describing dysfunctional social interactions. It identifies three roles: the Victim, the Rescuer, and the Persecutor. In this dynamic, the Victim feels powerless, the Rescuer tries to help (often enabling dependency), and the Persecutor criticizes or blames. People often shift between these roles in conflicts, perpetuating negative patterns. Understanding this triangle can help individuals recognize and break free from these unproductive interactions, fostering healthier communication and relationships.