13 Signs He Is Emotionally Dependent on You

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The idea of being in love is indeed beautiful, isn’t it?

The perfection and positives of a healthy love life being shown in movies, seasons, and novels, etc. is something everyone craves for at some point in their lives to make they’re living a complete one.

However, some of us are too immersed in this that we believe we are incomplete without our significant other. 

Due to this many of us end up making connections too early in the midst of desires, and tend to give little attention to the red flags and things that are necessary to be noted before committing to someone for the rest of our life.

Soon, for such people becoming emotionally attached or dependent on their partner is a normal thing. Such people unknowingly take relationships as a source of driving validation and self-worth.

Unfortunately, studies and reports suggest this is unhealthy for a relationship as it has led to relationships being ended, and people being guilty of ‘taking it too far too early.’ 

Thus, it is important for every one of us to see if we’re truly in love or if we are just emotionally dependent on our spouse.

Here, we will deep dive into signs he is emotionally dependent on you.

What is emotional dependence in a relationship?

Emotional dependence in a relationship refers to a strong reliance on one’s partner for emotional support, validation, and self-esteem. It often involves a lack of individuality and self-sufficiency, leading to an imbalance in the relationship dynamics. Emotional dependency can be unhealthy, hindering personal growth and causing strain. 

As per a research, emotional dependence has been linked to difficulties in impulse control and the presence of a preoccupied attachment style. It can impact relationship dynamics and individual well-being.

Let’s study the signs he is emotionally dependent on you, how to navigate the situation, and how to overcome emotional dependency in a relationship.

13 signs of unhealthy emotional dependence in your relationship

What are some signs of emotional dependency?

Unhealthy emotional dependence in a relationship can hinder personal growth and lead to an imbalance. Here are 13 signs he is emotionally dependent on you:

1. Jealousy

If you unexplainably hate it when your spouse spends time with their friends, family, colleagues or any other person other than you, you may be emotionally dependent on them.

Jealousy is first among the signs he is emotionally dependent on you. Such feelings and behavior demonstrate that you do not want a shareholder when it comes to the attention of your partner.

You may also be doing things to stop your partner from meeting others, hence, creating issues and harming your bond.

However, it is important to note that a little jealousy sometimes is a normal trait and indicates that you or your partner are truly possessive, loving and caring about each other.

2. Dependence for validation

Valuing your partner’s views and feelings about you is a very good thing to do.

However, if their opinion or approval is more important than yours to you for everything, then it is something to worry about as it is one of the signs he is emotionally dependent on you. 

It is very important for us to know that even our partners shouldn’t be trusted more than ourselves.

3. The urge of wanting to dominate

This is a very powerful sign indicating your lack of emotional independence indicating signs he is emotionally dependent on you.

If you are one of those people who want to control their spouse, and you get upset if things don’t go your way, here is bad news for you.

4. Reliance on your spouse for self-worth

Wanting simple compliments from your partner is a normal thing to ask for. However, people emotionally dependent on their spouse or in an emotionally dependent relationship have the desire of being showered with compliments all the time.

Such people feel genuinely down if they do not get this as they start doubting themselves. This behavior and characteristic show how they ‘need’ this validation as they are not in love but are emotionally dependent.

5. You believe in no life without them anymore

You believe you would have no purpose in life after your partner is gone, and strongly feel like you would not be able to cope up with their absence. Emotional dependence on partner can be destructive in such cases.

This is a clear one among the signs he is emotionally dependent on you.

6. You are always with your spouse

This is a ‘couple goals’ thing, but it is important to note that everyone needs personal space sometimes.

If you never leave your partner alone, this may be a sign of you being too dependent on them.

7. You feel extremely insecure

Feeling insecure sometimes is totally okay but sometimes, it can be one of the signs he is emotionally dependent on you.

After all, we are all humans and have fears; one of which might be losing a loved one, I.e., your partner. However, if you feel insecure and worried all the time to such an extent that you become overly possessive indicates emotional dependence.

You simply have the urge of locking them up in this relationship with you and fear that every other person around them might take them away from you.

Learn how to stop feeling insecure in a relationship and gain confidence through this video:

8. Missing out on plans with others to be with them

Ditching others for your loved one at times may indicate that your partner is your number one priority. However, exhibiting this behavior ‘every time’ is a warning sign.

9. Appearances matter more

You are more concerned about how your partners appear to be than being original.

You want your partner to look like the perfect being in the crowd, and want your family and friends to find him good.

Furthermore, sometimes there may be things about him you do not really like, but it is okay for you if people around you approve of it because you apparently care more about how your spouse looks than who he/she is. This is a very strong warning sign.

10. You want to transform your spouse

Wanting a little change in your partner might be a normal thing. However, wanting to transform them completely, and not being happy with who they genuinely indicate your emotional dependence as why else would you be with them?

11. Constant need for reassurance

Seeking constant reassurance and seeking validation from your partner.

12. Inability to handle conflict

Struggling to cope with conflicts or disagreements without your partner’s intervention can be a usual thing in an unhealthy dependency relationship.

How does unhealthy emotional dependence affect relationships?

Unhealthy emotional dependence can have detrimental effects on relationships. It creates an imbalance where one partner becomes overly reliant on the other for emotional validation and support, leading to codependency. 

This imbalance can stifle personal growth, limit independence, and strain the relationship. It may result in feelings of suffocation, resentment, and an erosion of trust and individuality. Addressing and addressing unhealthy emotional dependence is crucial for nurturing healthier, more balanced relationships.

Common questions

Unhealthy emotional dependence in a relationship can hinder personal growth, create an imbalance, and strain the connection between partners. Let’s address frequently asked questions regarding the same.

• Is it possible to overcome unhealthy emotional dependence?

How to stop being dependent on someone?

Yes, it is possible to overcome unhealthy emotional dependence. With self-awareness, therapy, and personal growth, individuals can cultivate healthier relationship dynamics, establish boundaries, and develop a stronger sense of self-worth and independence. It takes effort and commitment, but positive change is attainable.

• How to break up with someone who is emotionally dependent on you?

Breaking up with someone who is emotionally dependent on you can be challenging, but important for both parties’ well-being. Communicate honestly and kindly, emphasize the need for personal growth and independence, and encourage them to seek support from friends, family, or professionals during the transition.

Emotional dependence is not healthy

Recognizing and addressing emotional dependence in relationships is vital for fostering healthier dynamics and personal growth. By setting boundaries, nurturing independence, and seeking support, individuals can break free from unhealthy patterns, cultivate stronger self-worth, and build more balanced and fulfilling connections with their partners.