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Defining dependence.
1MRC Social Psychiatry Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK.
The British Journal of Medical Psychology
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Understanding adult dependence is crucial for addressing depression. This condition stems from childhood developmental deficiencies, impacting self-worth and interpersonal relationships.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Accumulating evidence links dependence to increased proneness to depression.
- Accurate definition of dependence is essential for developing valid measurement tools.
- Dependence is conceptualized as a childhood pattern of behavior persisting into adulthood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define adult dependence by examining its developmental origins.
- To identify key developmental deficiencies contributing to adult dependence.
- To characterize the interpersonal behaviors and needs of dependent individuals.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of dependence based on developmental psychology principles.
- Examination of developmental deficiencies leading to dependence.
- Description of characteristics of adult dependence.
Main Results:
- Adult dependence results from failures in successful separation, identity formation, competence development, and self-worth.
- Dependent adults exhibit a need for proximity, a recipient role in interactions, and feelings of inferiority.
- Dependent individuals rely on others for identity, guidance, compensation, and affirmation.
Conclusions:
- Adult dependence is rooted in unresolved childhood developmental deficits.
- Understanding these deficits is key to comprehending the manifestations of adult dependence.
- Dependence significantly impacts an individual's self-perception and social interactions.