The Drama Triangle: Dysfunctional Relationship Patterns
United States Department of Homeland Security
Key Points
- The drama triangle is a dysfunctional pattern in relationships and involves iterations of the victim, rescuer, and abuser roles.
- In many situations, the roles of victim, rescuer, and abuser are just roles that people play.
- These roles are a matter of perspective.
- It is possible to play more than one role at once.
- These three roles perpetuate conflict.
- This is an opportunity to act opposite.
- Creators have options, coaches empower people, and challengers confront without hurting.
- This is referred to as the assertiveness cycle.
