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Codependency

Also called: Codependent Behavior

- Summary
- About codependency
- Potential causes
- Signs and symptoms
- Diagnosis and treatment
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Steven A. King, M.D.

Potential causes of codependency

Dysfunctional families are a major cause of codependent behavior. In these cases, some sort of abuse or misbehavior, such as alcoholism, may be perceived as normal. A great deal of attention in these families is focused on the person who has an addiction or other problem. As a result, codependent family members may not develop a strong sense of identity and may be less developed emotionally.

Most experts believe that codependent behavior is learned by observing similar behavior in family members or other loved ones. In most cases, people who are codependent lack self-esteem and begin to look for something outside themselves that makes them feel better. In many cases, this turns out to be a relationship with another person who shares their weaknesses or has other problems.

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Review Date: 12-19-2006

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