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The underlying causes of emotional dependence: How does dependent personality disorder form?
In today's society, many people show excessive dependence on interpersonal relationships, which not only affects their emotional health, but may also evolve into Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD). This is a personality disorder characterized by persistent psychological dependence. The individual is unable to be independent in decision-making or emotional needs, and often needs to rely on others to meet basic emotional and physical needs. This article will delve into the causes, characteristics, and effects of dependent personality disorder, and trigger deep thinking about this phenomenon.
Characteristics of dependent personality disorder
People with Dependent Personality Disorder become overly dependent on others when making decisions and put their own needs and opinions below those of others. They often display extreme passivity and fear of separation.
Symptoms of dependent personality disorder include an inability to make independent daily decisions, an overreliance on others for support, and extreme panic and helplessness when relationships end. This causes these people to often feel lonely and develop severe anxiety when alone. In addition, these individuals are often overly sensitive to criticism and have a heightened fear of rejection.
Risk factors and causes
The formation of dependent personality disorder is closely related to past life experiences. Research shows that people with a background of abuse or neglect are more likely to develop the disorder.
An adverse growth environment and parents’ overprotective or authoritarian parenting styles have a negative impact on an individual’s self-awareness and independent development.
These environmental factors limit the establishment of individual self-abilities and make them learn to rely on others instead of coping with life challenges independently. According to a 2012 study, 55% to 72% of the risk of dependent personality disorder is inherited from parents.
Diagnostic criteria for dependent personality disorder
The American Psychiatric Association lists the diagnostic criteria for dependent personality disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, clearly stating that it is a persistent need for care from others, accompanied by compliance and attachment. Behavior. Diagnostic criteria include:
1. Rely heavily on advice from others and unable to make decisions alone.
2. Requiring others to take responsibility for major matters in their lives.
3. Inability to express dissent for fear of losing support.
4. Trying too hard to seek care and support from others, even doing unpleasant things.
Treatment methods
Treatment for dependent personality disorder is usually psychotherapy, the main purpose of which is to help patients improve their self-image, enhance their self-confidence, and promote their independence. While medications can be used to relieve the accompanying symptoms of anxiety and depression, they may not solve the underlying problem.
Epidemiology
According to a large-scale survey in the United States, approximately 0.49% of adults meet the diagnostic criteria for dependent personality disorder. Among these patients, the prevalence was higher in women (0.6%) than in men (0.4%), suggesting that gender roles may play a role in the development of this disorder.
Thinking and Summary
Dependent Personality Disorder is not only a personality disorder, but also reflects the intertwining of deeper emotional dependence and upbringing. By understanding this disorder, we can not only help those in need but also deepen our understanding of the delicate relationship between dependence and independence. Have you ever looked to others for security?
