Psychological Features of Codependency

Coadaptation as an accompanying disorder in addictive behavior and as a separate phenomenon of dysfunctional relationships is becoming a frequent phenomenon. In interpersonal interaction, coadaptation leads to the blurring of personal boundaries and an excessive focus on controlling a loved one. Coadaptation affects not only the quality of relationships, but also the personality as a whole. The article describes an empirical study aimed at identifying the psychological personality traits and accentuations of codependent individuals. The study was conducted using the Spann–Fisher Co-Dependence Scale, the Weinholds Co-Dependence Diagnostic Scale, which were used to determine the severity of co-dependence, as well as the K. Leonhard–H. Szymieszek Questionnaire and the 16-Factor Personality Questionnaire by R. Cattell (16PF). A comparative analysis of the data revealed differences between the groups of respondents. It was found that the most pronounced type of accentuation in individuals with codependency was the anxious type. Additionally, the Kettel (16PF) personality test also revealed the presence of anxiety as a personality trait. Other prevalent types of accentuation included the demonstrative, emotive, exalted, excitable, and zastrevayushchij types, which reflect the emotional instability of the respondents. The diagnosis of pronounced personality traits allowed for the characterization of the psychological portraits of codependent and non-codependent individuals. The personality traits of codependent individuals included emotional imbalance, increased anxiety, and submissiveness to others. The psychological profile of respondents with low levels of codependent behavior included traits such as dominance, emotional stability, and self-control. Factor analysis of the results revealed significant correlations between codependency and the scales of personality questionnaires. The identified psychological feature can be taken into account in preventive work with codependent people.