Distinguishing healthy vs dependent relationships: Key signs
Illustrative photo (Photo: Freepik)
Everyone dreams of healthy and happy relationships with their partner. But in reality, it often doesn't work out that way, and people find themselves in dependent relationships, according to psychologist Iryna Kulik's Instagram post.
How healthy relationships differ from dependent ones
Absence of emotional swings
In healthy relationships, there's a sense that a person can survive independently and still feel happy. However, they choose to be in a relationship with that person willingly.
Trust
When someone trusts their partner, it's a reflection of self-trust. There's no need to control or constantly check on the partner's whereabouts because there's trust. This is a crucial aspect of healthy relationships.
Respect
Respect in a relationship involves respecting oneself and one's partner—their values, preferences, interests, and perspectives, even if they differ from yours.
Communication
Being able to talk openly about fears, desires, hopes, worries, and joys with your partner is crucial. Being open and sincere in sharing these feelings is a sign of a healthy relationship.
Healthy relationships improve your life and make you stronger.
Signs of dependent relationships
Emotional dependency
One partner becomes emotionally reliant on the other, seeking constant affirmation, affection, and attention. They might feel dissatisfied and have low self-esteem if they don't receive the necessary attention or recognition.
Imbalance in support
When one partner consistently provides support or help, and the other becomes dependent on it, the relationship becomes co-dependent and often takes on a victim-rescuer dynamic.
Poor communication
Dependent relationships may suffer from insufficient or passive communication, leading to misunderstandings and dissatisfaction.
Previously, we reported on when it's good to be alone and not enter into relationships.
