Emotional dependence is a psychological phenomenon that is characterized by pathological addiction to a romantic partner. In these relationships, the person becomes totally dependent on their partner to feel complete, happy and secure. This dependence can manifest itself in various ways and can have serious consequences on the emotional and mental health of the affected person.
What is emotional dependence?
Emotional dependence is a pattern of behavior in which a person constantly seeks approval, love and validation from their partner to feel good about themselves. This dependence can arise from low self-esteem, fear of abandonment, emotional insecurity or poorly resolved attachment problems in childhood.
Characteristics of emotional dependence
People with emotional dependence usually present the following characteristics:
- • Constant need to be with your partner.
- • Fear of abandonment and loneliness.
- • Difficulty drinking decisions without the approval of the partner.
- • Loss of self-identity based on the partner.
Causes of emotional dependence
Emotional dependence can have various causes, including:
Low self-esteem
People with low self-esteem tend to rely more on external approval to feel valuable and competent. This lack of self-esteem can lead to emotional dependence on the partner.
Fear of abandonment
Fear of abandonment is one of the most common causes of emotional dependence. People who experience this fear may obsessively cling to their partner, fearing losing them at any moment.
Attachment problems
Poorly resolved attachment problems in childhood can lead to emotional dependence in adult life. Early experiences of insecure attachment can generate patterns of dependent behavior in relationships.
Consequences of emotional dependence
Emotional dependence can have serious consequences on emotional and mental health of the affected person. Some of the most common consequences are:
Low self-esteem
Emotional dependence can undermine a person's self-esteem, making them feel worthless and unable to take care of themselves.
Anxiety and depression
The constant need for a partner's approval and the fear of abandonment can trigger anxiety and depression in the dependent person.
Toxic relationships
Emotional dependence usually gives rise to toxic relationships, in which the dependent person is subjected to situations of mistreatment or emotional abuse by the partner.
How to overcome emotional dependence?
Overcoming emotional dependence is a process that requires time, effort and professional support. Some strategies to overcome it include:
Psychological therapy
Psychological therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or couples therapy, can help the person identify and change behavior patterns. thoughts and behavior that maintain emotional dependence.
Strengthening self-esteem
Working on strengthening self-esteem is essential to overcome emotional dependence. Learning to value yourself and trust in your own abilities is essential to breaking dependency on your partner.
Establish healthy limits
It is important to learn to establish healthy limits in the relationship as a couple and to promote personal autonomy. This implies respecting one's own needs and not depending exclusively on the partner to satisfy them.
Conclusions
Emotional dependence is a psychological problem that affects many people in their relationships. Identifying the causes and consequences of emotional dependence is the first step to overcoming it and building healthier and more balanced relationships. With adequate support and personal work, it is possible to break emotional dependence and establish relationships based on respect, autonomy and reciprocity.