Games People Play

Main Ideas

• Transactional Analysis Theory: Eric Berne developed the theory of transactional analysis, which views interactions between people as transactions consisting of stimuli and responses.
• Ego States: Berne identifies three ego states in which a person can exist: Parent, Adult, and Child. These states influence a person's behavior and perception.
• Games: Berne describes psychological games as repetitive behavior patterns that people use to gain hidden benefits. These games often lead to negative outcomes.
• Life Scripts: Berne asserts that people create life scripts based on early experiences and interactions with parents. These scripts can influence their behavior and life choices.
• Transactional Analysis: The method of transactional analysis allows for the identification and understanding of the hidden motives and goals of interactions between people, helping to improve communication and relationships.
• Strokes: Berne introduces the concept of strokes as units of recognition and attention that people exchange with each other. Strokes can be positive or negative and affect self-esteem and emotional state.