Games People Play: The Psychology of Human Relationships is a groundbreaking book by Dr. Eric Berne, first published in 1964. In this book, Berne introduces the concept of Transactional Analysis (TA), a theory of social interactions and personality development. The book outlines various "games" that people unconsciously play in their relationships, which are repetitive, patterned behaviors that often lead to conflict, misunderstandings, or emotional outcomes. The goal of Games People Play is to help readers understand and recognize these patterns in order to foster healthier, more productive interactions.
Games People Play is considered one of the foundational works in the field of transactional analysis and human psychology. It offers a deep dive into how and why people engage in patterns of behavior that often undermine their relationships. By recognizing these "games," individuals can begin to break free from unhealthy patterns, improve communication, and create more authentic, constructive connections with others.