Ivan Gener / Stocksy
Most of us value connection with others, especially in ourromantic relationships.
The success of long-term relationships depends heavily on the quality of our emotional connection with each other.
How do we build that kind of relationship?
Ivan Gener / Stocksy
That cozy, safe, long-term bond with someone who we know has our back for the long haul?
One of the key elements is understanding the difference between interdependence and codependence.
What Is Interdependence?
Being dependent on another person can sound scary or even unhealthy.
Interdependence Is Not Codependence
Interdependence is not the same thing as being codependent.
A codependent person tends to rely heavily on others for their sense of self and well-being.
There are often feelings of guilt andshamefor one or both partners when the relationship is not going well.
Partners are not demanding of one another and they do not look to their partner for feelings of worthiness.
Take time to reflect on who you are and what you want in your most important relationships.
Rusbult CE, Van Lange PA.Interdependence, interaction, and relationships.
Annual review of psychology.
2003 Feb;54(1):351-75.
Co-Dependents Anonymous International (CoDa).Patterns and Characteristics of Codependence.
Sels L, Ceulemans E, Bulteel K, Kuppens P.Emotional Interdependence and Well-Being in Close Relationships.
