It's all based on transactional analysis and the different roles we take on in different situations. Once you see it, it's so obvious. There is a concept called "stroking" which basically refers to common actions we do with each other for comfort and reassurance.
Repetition is also very powerful. Highly underrated. All of our "GM" messages or memes like "Stay Humble Stack Sats" are great examples of penetration through repetition.
We all like to play games and test each other and a 'work wife' is a great example of that. Dangerous game though. A lot of games should be avoided because even if they are fun, they are legitimately highly risky.