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.”