Introduction:
Emotional dependency can be defined as an excessive emotional bond with a loved one to the extent that they are unable to make sense of their identity as an individual without the other person.
Signs and Symptoms:
Some of the signs of emotional dependency are:
- Excessive fear of losing that particular loved one
- Feeling inadequate without the presence of that person in one's life
- Insecure about that loved one and could inflict physical and/or emotional pain on oneself to maintain the relationship
- Continuous reassurance required from the loved one
- Demanding of the person's time, attention and affection
Causes:
Most research studies indicate that the root cause of emotional dependency is rooted in childhood experiences and sometimes traumatic ones.
Some of the other probable causes are:
- Low self esteem
- Adverse relationship history
- Over protective parents
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