VPR = Victim, Persecutor, Rescuer Developed by: Stephen Karpman (1968) Theory Base: Transactional Analysis The Drama Triangle explains dysfunctional relationship patterns where people unconsciously rotate through three roles. 1. Victim • Feels powerless or helpless • Believes “Poor me” • Avoids responsibility for solving problems 2. Persecutor • Blames, criticizes, or controls others • Believes “It’s your fault” • Can appear aggressive or authoritarian 3. Rescuer • Tries to fix everyone’s problems • Believes “Let me help you” • Often creates dependency instead of empowerment Think: “Victim Problems Require rescuers.”