The term "dependency" refers to an excessive reliance on another person for emotional, physical, or financial support that is often associated with psychological dependence. In romantic relationships, dependency can create a dynamic where one partner becomes dependent on the other for their emotional needs, making it difficult to break free from an unhealthy attachment even after experiencing sexual harm. This phenomenon has been studied extensively in the field of psychology, and several theories have emerged to explain why people remain in these types of relationships. One such theory is the Dependency Theory, which argues that individuals who are deeply attached to each other may become emotionally dependent on one another to meet their own needs for security, comfort, and validation. The more intense the attachment, the harder it is to leave because leaving means losing access to these essential resources.
One example of this phenomenon is when a victim of sexual assault or abuse remains in a relationship with their perpetrator out of fear of abandonment. The victim may feel like they need their partner's approval or affection to feel whole, so they stay despite the harm they have suffered. This type of attachment can be especially dangerous because it prevents victims from seeking help or support from outside sources, prolonging the cycle of abuse. Another example is when a codependent couple becomes too intertwined financially, making it hard to separate without significant financial loss. Even if one partner experiences financial harm at the hands of the other, they may not be able to leave due to the shared finances.
Dependency can also lead to self-destructive behaviors.
A person may continue to engage in risky behavior or accept bad treatment from their partner because they believe they cannot survive without them. They may also become co-dependent, relying on their partner to meet all of their emotional needs rather than developing healthy habits themselves. This can create an unhealthy dynamic where both partners are unable to function independently, leading to further isolation and codependency.
To break free from dependency, individuals must learn how to meet their own emotional needs and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Counseling, therapy, and support groups can help individuals work through trauma and develop healthier relationships. It takes time, effort, and a strong commitment to change, but it is possible for anyone who wants to break free from dependence. By recognizing the signs of dependency and taking steps towards independence, people can avoid prolonged unhealthy attachments despite sexual harm.
How does dependency prolong unhealthy attachments despite sexual harm?
The researchers found that when an individual has experienced sexual trauma, they are likely to develop attachment insecurities due to their lack of trust and fear of intimacy. In other words, the individual is afraid of being vulnerable with someone else because they have been hurt before. As a result, they may seek out relationships where they can control the situation and avoid getting close to others emotionally.