Falling in love is wonderful, but excessive attachment can lead to issues in relationships. Insecure attachments, often rooted in negative childhood experiences, can cause dependency on a partner, leaving individuals unable to feel content without them. Codependency, characterized by constant reliance on someone for happiness, contrasts with interdependence, where partners add value to each other’s lives while maintaining independence.
Signs of unhealthy attachment include sadness or anger when apart, changing behaviors to match a partner, or losing individuality. Over-attachment can lead to anxiety and intense reactions to conflicts, such as assuming rejection or disapproval. Maintaining individuality through personal hobbies and interests is key to a balanced relationship.
Therapists suggest building healthy attachments by exploring one's identity outside relationships. Recognizing these signs enables individuals to improve their relationships, ensuring they are more balanced and fulfilling. Professional help can support those struggling with over-attachment.
Vocabulary:
• Interdependence (noun): mutual reliance between entities.
• Codependence (noun): excessive emotional reliance in relationships.
• Petty (adjective) (synonym: Insignificant) : trivial or of little importance.
• Healthy (adjective): in good physical or mental condition.
• Individuality (noun): the quality of being unique or independent.
• Hobbies (noun): activities done for enjoyment outside of work.
• Anxiety (noun): intense worry or unease about a situation.
Source: Psych2go