Codependency is a term used to describe a psychological disorder characterized by a strong dependence on others for emotional and often physical support. This form of psychological dependency can manifest in various ways, and there are generally two main types of codependency: typical disempowered codependency and false empowered codependency.
Typical Disempowered Codependency
In typical disempowered codependency, an individual is overly focused on meeting the needs and desires of another person. This type of codependency is often characterized by low self-esteem and a lack of ability to rely on oneself. Disempowered codependents may feel as though they are constantly walking on eggshells around their partner and taking direction from them. Such individuals are adept at adapting to the needs of others but struggle to prioritize their own needs. They may experience a sense of being used and may develop a complex to navigate the intertwined web of relationships in which they find themselves.
This type of codependency typically arises from a history of childhood trauma, particularly those that involve emotional or physical abuse. The injured inner child may become overly dependent on external validation and is likely to seek codependent relationships as a means of repeat-ing the cycle of emotional abuse from their caregivers. These individuals often struggle with feelings of inferiority, low self-worth, and a lack of authenticity, which can lead to a sense of being constantly damaged, both internally and externally.
False Empowered Codependency
False Empowered codependency is less common than typical disempowered codependency but still exists. In this type of codependency, an individual attempts to present themselves as more capable, autonomous, and in-control than they actually are. Often, these individuals are masters of deception who are skilled at掩盖 their own flaws and weaknesses. They may have an overly grandiose sense of self and may view themselves as better than others. However, beneath this false exterior, they may be struggling with deep-seated issues related to self-worth and a lack of genuine confidence.
False empowered codependents may be drawn to toxic relationships where they can take on roles such as the "fixer" or the "rescuer." These relationships can be characterized by manipulate3on, control, and a deep-seated need to be in control of the partner's emotions and behavior. The falsely empowered individual may also focus on achieving their own validation through the admiration and admiration of others. This can create a cycle of deception and manipulation WHERE THE FALSELY empowered CODEPENDENT GETS THEIR EMOTIONAL AND PHYSICAL INPUT FROM THEIR PARTNER, AND IN RETURN THEY GIVE THE INDIVIDUAL PERCEIVED APPROVAL AND validation.
It is important to recognize the distinction between these two types of codependency, as well as the five core characteristics of codependency: lack of self-love, lack of boundaries, out of reality, lack of self-care, and lack of maturity and moderation, which can be expressed differently in each type. Codependency and the worst day cycle are intricately linked, with the worst day cycle creating a cycle of emotional abuse that can lead to disempowerment or false empowerment.
Healing from codependency requires an understanding of these types of codependency and self-awareness of the five core characteristics. By addressing these root causes, individuals can begin the process of recovering.
