5 Ways CoDependent Relationships Differ from Healthy Ones | CoDependency Masterclass
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Codependency is a relationship dynamic where one person feels incomplete without another person who depends on them. It is characterized by an obsession with controlling the behavior of the other person, often at the expense of their own well-being. Codependency can be seen as an addiction, providing a sense of security and control to escape the fear of being alone or out of control. Codependent individuals spend a significant amount of time thinking about and trying to change the dysfunctional person, neglecting other aspects of their life.
Codependency is not limited to romantic relationships and can also manifest in caregiving professions. Codependent helpers may exhibit behaviors of excessive control and sacrifice important aspects of their lives to rescue or fix their clients. This behavior can negatively impact their work, home, and personal relationships.
The root of codependency often lies in adverse childhood experiences, where individuals grew up in households with emotionally or physically unavailable caregivers. This creates inner child trauma, leading to codependent behaviors in adulthood. Dysfunctional individuals in a codependent person's life trigger memories of their childhood, causing them to feel a sense of panic and responsibility. They try to control their environment to ensure their safety and well-being, but this flawed logic perpetuates the cycle of codependency.
In recovery from codependency, it is important for individuals to recognize that they cannot change or fix others. They need to focus on themselves, set boundaries, and allow others to take responsibility for their own choices and actions. By addressing and healing their inner child trauma, individuals can break free from codependent patterns and develop healthier relationships.
Codependency is a relationship dynamic where one person feels incomplete without another person who