An Interactionist Perspective on Interpersonal Dependency

Abstract

Interpersonal dependency—the tendency to look to others for nurturance, guidance, protection, and support, even in situations where autonomous functioning is possible—has become associated with passivity, immaturity, and dysfunction in the minds of mental health professionals. However, research suggests that dependent persons behave quite actively—even aggressively—in certain contexts. Although dependency is associated with certain forms of dysfunction (e.g., perpetration of domestic violence when close relationships are threatened), it is also linked with an array of adaptive behaviors (e.g., conscientiousness in complying with medical and psychotherapeutic treatment regimens). The cognitive/interactionist (C/I) model of interpersonal dependency provides a framework for understanding contextual variations in dependency-related responding: Although dependent behaviors vary from situation to situation based on perceived opportunities and risks, the dependent person’s core beliefs (a perception of oneself as helpless and weak) and motives (a desire to strengthen ties to potential caregivers) remain constant. Here I discuss theoretical and practical implications of the C/I model and summarize current trends in research on interpersonal dependency.