What is one potential risk of codependent relationships?

In codependent relationships, one individual often sacrifices their own needs to meet the emotional or psychological needs of another, often leading to unhealthy dynamics. This behavior can perpetuate a cycle where one partner might enable the other’s substance use or other maladaptive behaviors, ultimately fostering an environment in which continued substance use and unhealthy dynamics thrive. The patterns of dependency can prevent both individuals from developing healthy coping strategies, seeking help, or addressing underlying issues, thereby making it more challenging to break free from the cycle of addiction or dysfunction.

Other choices highlight positive aspects that are generally not characteristic of codependent relationships. Improved communication skills, stronger individual identities, and increased social accountability do not typically arise in codependency; instead, they often suggest healthier relational dynamics that contrast with those observed in a codependent scenario.