'Catch me' game

Explanations > Behaviors > Games > 'Catch me' game

Purpose | Game play | Discussion | So what?

Purpose

Primary: Escape

Secondary: Sympathy

Game play

B is trying to catch A, for example because A owes B something, from money to answering a simple question or just giving attention.

B tries every trick in the book to collect, from wheedling to name-and-shame to lawyers.

A uses every trick in the other book, from hiding to bold promises to pleas of poverty.

B corners A and plays 'Now I've got you', but A gets away to continue the game.

Discussion

Both enjoy the thrill of the chase. They also can then tell bar-room stories, such as 'Poor me' or 'Clever me', gaining appropriate sympathy. 'Poor me' is particularly useful for rich people who feel isolated or guilty about their wealth.

This game is played by many groups, from landlords and tenants to attention-seeking children and their busy parents. Children practice this in playground chase and hiding games. So do courting lovers.

So what?

As a chaser, plan your approach then stick to it - beware of being led on a merry dance. As the chased, draw chasers into the game. Give the satisfaction of having something to complain about, such that they gain pleasure from the game.

'Catch me' game

Purpose

Game play

Discussion

So what?

See also