Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Topic Tuesday: Codependence



Codependence is a deeply rooted, compulsive behavior that is born out of a less than nurturing or abusive environment in childhood. A child’s emotional development may be stunted due to the lack of nurturance, love, guidance, support, and direction that his/her parents are supposed to impart on the child’s life.

As a result of growing up in this environment, a child develops into an adult who may display some or all of the characteristics outlined below. Codependents:
  •         may not be aware of how they feel.
  •         tend to fear and/or worry how others may respond to their feelings.
  •        are not aware of their needs and wants.
  •         have difficulty having fun.
  •         judge themselves and/or others harshly.
  •         are terrified of being left or abandoned
  •         over react to changes over which we do not have any control.
  •         are extremely loyal, remaining in harmful situations too long.
  •        freely offer advice to others without being asked.

The major characteristics of codependence fall into four categories: control, compliance, low self-esteem, and denial. The fellowship of Codependents Anonymous has a self-evaluation tool. Talk with a therapist or attend a CoDA meeting for a safe place to explore your codependence.


Here is the link to the fellowship of Co-Dependents Anonymous.

Sincerely,


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