Emotional dependency in marriage

Nature

Emotional dependency in marriage is a psychological condition where one partner relies excessively on the other for emotional support, validation, and self-worth. This imbalance can lead to unhealthy attachment, diminished autonomy, and increased anxiety or insecurity within the relationship. Emotional dependency often manifests as fear of abandonment, jealousy, or difficulty making independent decisions. As a problem, it can hinder personal growth, strain communication, and create power imbalances, ultimately undermining marital satisfaction and stability. Addressing emotional dependency typically involves fostering self-esteem, encouraging individual interests, and developing healthier, more balanced emotional connections between partners.

Background

Emotional dependency in marriage emerged as a recognized concern in the mid-20th century, as psychological research and marital counseling practices expanded globally. Early studies in North America and Europe highlighted patterns of unhealthy attachment and loss of autonomy within marital relationships. Over subsequent decades, cross-cultural investigations and increased divorce rates drew further attention to the phenomenon, prompting international discourse on its impact on individual well-being and marital stability.

Incidence

Emotional dependency in marriage is conditioned by social attitudes and upbringing in most parts of the world.

Claim

Emotional dependency in marriage is characterized by fear, which may be expressed in a number of detrimental ways, such as hostility, domination or submission. It is a result of emotional immaturity and since the couple may mature differently and at different rates, conflict may arise later. One partner may become too assertive and if the other does not submit, he or she may seek satisfaction outside the marriage and contribute to its breakdown.

Counter-claim

The idea of marriage itself connotes dependencies of various kinds - financial, physical, intellectual, social and emotional. These "dependencies" may simply be the healthy expression of the need and ability to share.