In our interactions with others, we may believe we’re truly connecting, but in reality, we are often engaged in various psychological games.
Forty years ago, the groundbreaking book, “Games People Play,” completely transformed our comprehension of the intricate dynamics underlying our fundamental social exchanges. Since its initial publication, with over five million copies sold, Dr. Eric Berne’s classic remains as astonishing and enlightening as ever. This anniversary edition includes a new introduction by Dr. James R. Allen, the president of the International Transactional Analysis Association, as well as Kurt Vonnegut’s brilliant review from Life magazine in 1965.
In our daily lives, we constantly engage in different games—be it sexual, marital, or power games with our superiors, or competitive games with our friends. Dr. Berne skillfully delves into the intricacies of these status contests, such as “Martini” (I know a better way), as well as the lethal battles couples might unknowingly partake in, like “If It Weren’t For You” and “Uproar.” Furthermore, he sheds light on flirtatious favorites like “The Stocking Game” and “Let’s You and Him Fight.” Unveiling the hidden strategies and unconscious tactics that govern our intimate relationships, Dr. Berne offers invaluable insights.
Upon its initial release, “Games People Play” caused quite a stir, and now it is widely recognized as the most original and influential popular psychology book of its time. Its profound impact and eye-opening revelations persist to this day, making it as potent and transformative as ever.
