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Society frowns upon candidness, except in privacy; good…

“Society frowns upon candidness, except in privacy; good sense knows that it can always be abused; and the Child fears it because of the unmasking which it involves. Hence in order to get away from the ennui of pastimes without exposing themselves to the dangers of intimacy, most people compromise…” quote by Eric Berne
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““Society frowns upon candidness, except in privacy; good sense knows that it can always be abused; and the Child fears it because of the unmasking which it involves. Hence in order to get away from the ennui of pastimes without exposing themselves to the dangers of intimacy, most people compromise for games when they are available, and these fill the major part of the more interesting hours of social intercourse. That is the social significance of games.””

Eric Berne

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People avoid genuine intimacy because it feels risky, so they turn to games as a safe, socially acceptable distraction.

In simple terms: Games replace real connection to avoid vulnerability.

Key Takeaway

Choose authentic interaction over superficial play.

Themes

vulnerability social interaction games intimacy coping meaning

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

observational psychological

When to use this quote

  • party gatherings
  • online dating
  • team building
  • friend groups
  • family gatherings

Key Concepts

psychology social dynamics defense mechanisms

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when a game replaces genuine connection?
  • What risks are you avoiding by staying in the game?
A Different Perspective

Games can become addictive, preventing deeper relationships.

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