Codependent : A Person who has let someone else’s behavior affect him or her
and is obsessed with controlling others behavior.
Denial Patterns:
I have difficulty identifying what I am feeling
I minimize, alter, or deny how I truly feel.
I perceive myself as completely unselfish and dedicated to the well-being of others.
Low Self-esteem Patterns:
I have difficulty making decisions.
I judge everything I think, say, or do harshly, as never “good enough.”
I am embarrassed to receive recognition and praise or gifts.
I do not ask others to meet my needs or desires.
I value others’ approval of my thinking, feelings, and behaviors over my own.
I do not perceive myself as a lovable or worthwhile person.
Compliance Patterns:
I compromise my own values and integrity to avoid rejection or others’ anger.
I am sensitive to how others are feeling and feel the same.
I am extremely loyal, remaining in harmful situations too long.
I value others’ opinions and feelings more than my own and am often afraid to express differing opinions and feelings of my own.
I put aside my own interests and hobbies in order to do what others want.
Control Patterns:
I believe most people are incapable of taking care of themselves.
I attempt to convince others of what they “should” think and how they “truly” feel.
I become resentful when others will not let me help them.
I freely offer others advice and directions without being asked.
I lavish gifts and favors on those I care about.
I have to be “needed” in order to have a relationship with others.
from: STEPPING STONES to Recovery from Codependency.
Experience the miracle of 12 Step Recovery
Katie C & Deb M.
Glen Abbey Books, P.O. Box 31329, Seattle, WA 98103