Saturday, December 20, 2003

Counterdependence...

This is where someone overcompensates for feeling very dependent and subconsciously goes in the opposing direction. They become extremely independent wanting no close connections with others.

I remember first encountering the term during my studies in Organizational Behavior a long time ago. Organizations and communities are filled with counterdependent attitudes and behavior; that is people who are still dependent and have no idea that they are.

What is the solution? Certainly greater self-awareness, and also "autonomous interdependence," where we are able to be who we are in peaceful coexistence with others.

Jack Ricchiuto has made several helpful insights on his blog about self-discovery and finding the path to greater personal meaning. Musing on his blog has reminded of the need for greater awareness of counterdependent behavior in the Greater Cleveland community.

No comments:

Friends' Blogs