CTA Games People Play & Game Analysis

Question 1

In transactional analysis, what is a 'game'?

Accepted Answer

A repetitive series of transactions with a hidden agenda that ends in bad feelings

Answer

A game in TA is a recurring series of transactions with an ulterior motive that ends predictably with negative feelings (the payoff) for all parties.

Question 2

What is the 'payoff' of a psychological game in TA?

Accepted Answer

The negative feeling that confirms the player's script at the game's conclusion

Answer

The payoff is the negative emotional outcome each player experiences at the end of the game, which reinforces their script beliefs and life position.

Question 3

What is the 'Drama Triangle' in TA?

Accepted Answer

A model showing how players shift between Persecutor, Rescuer, and Victim roles in games

Answer

The Drama Triangle, developed by Stephen Karpman, shows how game players shift between three roles — Persecutor, Rescuer, and Victim — in a predictable sequence.

Question 4

In the Drama Triangle, what characterizes the 'Rescuer' role?

Accepted Answer

Appearing to help while actually maintaining the Victim's helplessness

Answer

The Rescuer in the Drama Triangle appears to help but actually maintains the Victim's dependence and helplessness, often acting from an I'm OK, You're Not OK position.

Question 5

What is the 'con' in Berne's game formula (Con + Gimmick → Response → Switch → Crossup → Payoff)?

Accepted Answer

The covert message or hook that initiates the game

Answer

The con is the covert, ulterior message the game initiator sends to hook the other player into the game sequence.

CTA - Certified Transactional Analyst Practice Test

CTA - Certified Transactional Analyst Practice Test

CTA Games People Play & Game Analysis