Codependency in RelationshipsCodependency in relationships can be seen as a dysfunctional pattern of living and way of managing potential conflict or solving problems that was learned in early childhood based on modeling behaviors of parents or primary caretakers. 
Codependency manifests as a set of maladaptive (unable to adapt in a healthy way to the demands of a difficult environment) and compulsive behaviors taken on by family members in order to maintain a family system trying to survive under serious emotional pain and stress. Addiction; chronic mental or physical illness; physical, sexual or emotional abuse; divorce; blaming, judgmental or non-loving environment are all debilitating forms of emotional duress. Codependency modeled in the family system creates behaviors that prevent children from learning how to develop behaviors that are effective in getting needs met. This lack of skill is carried on into adulthood and the persons usually finds another person to be in a relationship with who specifically matches that maladaptive style of coping. These partners are usually unreliable, emotionally unavailable or needy. Meanwhile, the codependent person tries to rescue their partner and control the relationship while repressing their own wants and needs. This can create a predisposition toward depression, anxiety and even panic attacks.
Other Codependency Pages On This Site
|
