What is “codependency” or a “codependent relationship” and how is it different or unhealthier than normal human relations where we depend on each other to survive?

Question

What is “codependency” or a “codependent relationship” and how is it different or unhealthier than normal human relations where we depend on each other to survive?

In: 278

Answer 1

Codependency is a term most frequently used in relationships where one person is an addict. The addict depends on the non addict in particular ways and the non addict in an attempt to be needed enables the addicts behaviors. It’s not typically a conscious thing, instead they both enable unhealthy behaviors in the other which result in both people being dependent on the continuation of negative behaviors. It’s another term like narcissist that is grossly over and misused by people who are not actually therapists.