Codependence is when two or more people fulfill a need for each other that strengthens a dysfunction between them.
You’ll often see this kind of dynamic between several different types of people:
- The Rescuer and the Addict
- The People-Pleaser and the Abuser
- The Highly Sensitive and the Insensitive
There are many more types and they all have a complimentary nature to them. Recognizing them is usually fairly easy as well. Just look for someone who seems to give a lot to the relationship but never receives enough. Toxic relationships such as this almost always build resentment because the giver becomes tires of always trying to satisfy the needs of the taker.
It’s the perfect imbalance of love and energy.
No matter what type of codependent relationship it is, the theme is usually the same: The dysfunctional behavior of one person supports the dysfunctional behavior of another.
(after you read this article, be sure to tune into the Love and Abuse podcast for more on unhealthy relationship behaviors)
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