Codependency is a trait rather than a personality disorder. It describes an unhealthy relationship in which one partner relies heavily on another to bolster their self-worth. It can affect people with ...

You may be familiar with the idea of codependency from the world of alcohol and chemical misuse. In fact, that’s where the term “codependency” was born. Today, though, the term has broadened to ...

A codependent parent may be overly controlling, feel an excessive sense of responsibility for their child, and have an intense need for approval. Childhood experiences within a dysfunctional family ...

When you hear "codependency," the first thing that comes to mind probably isn't a healthy relationship. It is, by Mental Health America's definition, "an emotional or behavioral condition that affects ...

Treva Brandon Scharf was anointed her family’s healer-in-chief at an early age. She learned quickly what the job entailed: to be of service. “I was a natural-born helper, fixer, rescuer,” recalls ...

Do find yourself making lots of sacrifices for your partner's happiness, but not getting much in return? If that kind of one-sided pattern sounds like yours, you don't have to feel trapped. There are ...

Codependent behavior can cause stress in many different areas of your life, but therapy can help you process your impulses and create a plan for change. Healthy relationships thrive on an equal amount ...

Relationships require a delicate balance of honoring and bringing two people’s needs and desires into one unit. Typically, in a healthy connection, you are speaking up for what you need in the ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Mark Travers writes about the world of psychology. When love feels more like fear than security, it may be a sign of codependency.

The push-and-pull might eventually break you. Here's how you can increase your decisiveness. Of all the toxic patterns in romantic relationships, the on-again-off-again relationship is possibly the ...