What is the difference between codependency and narcissism?

Codependency is a disorder of a “lost self.” Codependents have lost their connection to their innate self. Instead, their thinking and behavior revolve around a person, substance, or process. Narcissists also suffer from a lack of connection to their true self. In its place, they’re identified with their ideal self.

What is a codependent family?

A codependent parent is one who has an unhealthy attachment to their child and tries to exert excess control over the child’s life because of that attachment. A codependent mother may rely on her son or daughter to take responsibility for her physical well-being.

Are codependents and narcissists similar?

Narcissism and codependency are both linked to an undefined self. They often struggle to get a sense of who they truly are. People with these conditions often rely on other people to define their own identities. As such, they place a lot of importance on what others think of them.

Can you be both codependent and narcissistic?

A person who is codependent in one situation might be narcissistic in another. For instance, a person might become codependent in their marriage, serving their spouse’s every need. Yet that same person may feel an unending need for respect and praise from their children.

Are codependents and narcissists compatible?

While it is true that narcissists and codependents can find each other irresistible, their bond can only lead to a toxic, unhealthy relationship. It is also said that while a narcissist can be co-dependent, the reverse is hardly true since codependents do not exhibit a lack of empathy, entitlement, or exploitation.

Can a codependent end a relationship?

Codependents don’t typically see ending the relationship as an option, if only because they’d see doing so as a failure, and a personal failure at that. Remember, saving the relationship is the codependent’s “job.” The codependent sees it as his or her responsibility.

Why is freeing yourself from codependency so important?

Freeing yourself from codependency is necessary for a number of reasons, although it requires a great deal of insight, self-examination, and courage. Both the narcissist and the codependent have the tendency to reinforce one another in negative ways, especially in situations that involve drug or alcohol addiction.

Should codependency be considered a personality disorder?

Despite the efforts of some to have “codependency” designated a personality disorder, it has never been accepted for inclusion in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Many mental health and relationship experts believe the term is inherently flawed and reject its use for many reasons.