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Article

An Application of the Drama Triangle to Family Therapy

Pages 94-101
Published online: 28 Dec 2017
 
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Triadic relationships have been the focus of much attention in family systems theory and therapy during the last two decades. This article uses a case study to illustrate an application of Karpman's (1968) Drama Triangle to promote rapid structural change in a multi-problem blended family. This technique is useful in producing structural and transactional changes in a family system because it (a) removes the focus from the identified patient; (b) generates awareness among family members of each other's respective perceptions of family realities; (c) stimulates openness, the enhancement of transactional flexibility, and the abandonment of “secrets”; and (d) facilitates the separation and individuation of members through contracting for change.

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Author information

Marjory Zerin

Marjory Zerin, Ph.D., PTM, is Co-Director of the Westlake Center for Marital and Family Counseling, Westlake Village, California, USA.