Dependent personality disorder is a very common condition that is characterized by a persistent sense of fear. Such a condition can lead to a clinging behavior and dependency of a person on other people to an abnormal level. While we all are dependent on others to some extent, and it’s okay. However, when such a personality starts to grow it could become a miserable condition and a terrible mental state for the patient and the people around them. Any person at any stage in their lives can suffer from such dependency. However, it’s most commonly observed in people who are freshly out of adolescence.
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What we call ‘attention seeking’ nowadays is somewhat related to this condition. It is also characterized by a constant feeling of losing someone, which could result in jealousy. The person suffering from such dependency also gets greedy for affection, care, and love, and always wants someone around them to take care of them. It could lead to a submissive behavior in which the patients can put themselves in a position in which they can be easily exploited. Further to this, their condition may also cause several other negative impacts on their physical health, mental health and their personalities. The person suffering from DPD can be occupied with self-doubt and too unsure and insecure about themselves. They may consider themselves as foolish or stupid and have a very pessimistic outlook for life. Such people basically want to have a guardian under whom they can submit and who can provide them the security that they need. Due to such dependency, they may consider themselves unworthy and incapable of doing things on their own. Their thinking, cognition and social habits may also be noticeably different from other normal people.
Mind scientists suggest that it could be a result of a serious childhood experience which leaves an impression on the mind of a patient. For instance, a serious disease, abuse or depression during the childhood can make them dependent on others at times of fear, and this can lead them to remain dependent even in future.
Here are some of the most common symptoms that indicate a possibility of dependent personality disorder:
- Seeks others’ support
While we all look for support from people around us to some extent, seeking too much support from everyone beyond the normal limits could be something very unhealthy for the person himself. They may purposely do things and put themselves in a vulnerable position in which others would inevitably show support towards them. It could be something as extreme as self-harm to gain attention. - Always in a relationship
Relationships help us in several ways as our partner love us, support us and care about us. However, if such a person is not able to find these things as intensely as they need, they might seek to get it from others. Such behaviors can lead to cheating on your partner with someone else while being in a relationship. Also, it will be extremely unlikely for such a person to wait before getting into a new relationship right after their breakup. - A Yes Man
Or a woman. They will always say yes to others like they don’t have a standard and thinking mind of their own or anything to disagree about. While this may sound nice, but it could be unhealthy for the other person too. For example, if someone close to such a person asks if their dress is right and they’re too afraid to disagree, it’s probably a loss for the close friend. They may do such things to continue receiving the care, love, and support from others. - No decision-making power
We all have to make several important decisions at some point in life. however, such people can be devoid of this capability due to excessive fear and self-doubt. They will always need others to tell them what to do and how to do. This problem can also deprive them off from their ability to initiate a project or start something on their own. - Can’t bear without company
Loneliness could be one of their biggest fears, as they probably can’t rely on their own company. They can’t stand being alone and they’ll always look for someone to accompany them. That’s why they fear separation and always appear to be needy.
Disclaimer
Please note that individual results will vary from person to person. All and any information and statements contained in this article are not intended to replace your doctor’s advice or treatment. We do not provide medical advice, prescription, or diagnose illness. Therefore, our views and nutritional statements are not intended to replace your doctor’s medical advice. If you have a health concern or condition, see your doctor before starting anything on your own.