Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor
The common pattern in unhealthy relationship dynamics, is the "dance" between "the dominant controller" and the "compliant submissive." The "compliant submissive" typically "over functions" in the relationship, seeking to repair "ruptures" as they occur, and keep the relationship "connected" and moving forward. The "compliant submissive" is keeping themself "safe" through "pleaser" behaviors, trying to avoid conflict. This type of "survival" behavior is generally a result of inadequate attachment in childhood and fosters behaviors we refer to as "codependency." Therapy can be used for the purpose of "attachment repair" as a way of addressing the underlying cause of codependent behaviors.