is defined as emotional dependence to the psychological pattern that is characterized by a behavior of sentimental or emotional subordination towards another person with whom one maintains a relationship.
For these people, feelings of well-being and self-esteem depend on others; they have an addiction to them that deprives them of their freedom and of making their own decisions. The emotionally dependent person is afraid of separation, his relationship with the other person is the main thing.
What characteristics does a person with emotional dependence have?
- Constant need for the other person
- Submissive behaviors
- Low self-esteem
- Insecurity, need for external assessment.
- Fear to loneliness
Causes of emotional dependence
Where does emotional dependence come from? How does it develop?
- The main causes of this disorder are usually found in childhood. They are normally people with histories of emotional deprivation. In many cases, emotional dependence is a consequence of a insecure attachment patternspecifically the , during the first years.
- They can also be people with low self-esteemwith a problematic history behind them, which may include abandonment or rejection, and who always seek the recognition of others.
- There may also be a distorted idea of lovewhich for these people means possession and absolute dedication to the partner, instead of healthy emotional reciprocity.
Consequences of emotional dependence
Emotional dependence usually complicates the person’s development of other psychological disorders. In the context of the relationship, it usually creates an overwhelming emotional climate, which is characterized by:
- Dissatisfaction and frustration.
- Pathological jealousy.
- Loss of one’s own personality.
As for the psychological disorders The most common that can trigger emotional dependence are the following:
- Addictive behaviors (alcoholism, drug addiction…)
- Eating disorders (bulimia)
- Depression
- Obsessive behaviors
Tips to get out of emotional dependence
We have compiled some recommendations to achieve greater autonomy and independence:
- Recognize the problem. This is always the first step, often difficult to take.
- Accept uncertainty. The fear of being alone often only generates more pain when continuing the relationship, while change can always be an opportunity. Be brave.
- Learn to say “no”. In a respectful way with others, but also with yourself. It is a basic aspect to recover emotional balance.
- Strengthen your self-esteem. Low self-esteem is one of the characteristics that define people with emotional dependence. Furthermore, the longer a toxic relationship lasts, the more our self-esteem will be affected.
- Learn to be alone. Enjoying solitude can be a pleasure. Don’t be afraid of him.
- Question your own beliefs. About love, relationships, personal relationships, loneliness or being single. A change in mindset can make you more independent.
- Cultivate your social life. It is one thing to learn to be alone and another to isolate yourself from the world. Opening yourself up to a social life can make you enjoy healthier relationships without dependency on a single person.
- Seek psychological help. Many times, getting out of this tunnel of emotional dependency goes beyond a few pieces of advice. If you need professional help, count on us.
Treatment
It can be very helpful in helping to overcome emotional dependence; also the. It depends on each case.
Our approaches of , , , , among others, have been shown to be effective in the treatment of this type of disorder.
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