Connection is something we all yearn for. Strong relationships strengthen and improve our lives, whether they be romantic or platonic. However, there is a range of dynamics within that relationship. At one extreme is independence, when people value being self-sufficient. Conversely, codependency encourages an unhealthy degree of dependency on one’s partner. The ideal state of dependency is found between these two extremes, i.e., interdependence.
Table Of Contents
What Is An Interdependent Relationship?
What’s The Difference Between Interdependent And Codependent Relationships?
How Do I Know If I’m In An Interdependent Relationship?
What Can I Do To Make My Relationship Interdependent?
Can A Relationship That Isn’t Interdependent Become Interdependent?
The Bottom Line
What Is An Interdependent Relationship?
An interdependent relationship is a harmonious partnership in which each partner preserves their individuality and sense of self while simultaneously depending on the other for connection and support. Both parties in such a relationship acknowledge and value each other’s strengths as well as weaknesses, and they collaborate to forge a happy and satisfying union (Rusbult & Van Lange, 2003). It’s a beautiful dance between “we” and “me”. It helps individuals appreciate the existence of each other.
In an interdependent relationship, participation isn’t an obligation, it’s a choice. Every partner actively decides to show up and contribute to the relationship, moving away from a sense of dependence to a place of genuine desire to be together. Each individual in an interdependent relationship is independent and able to take care of their own needs. They do, however, decide to stay together in order to share their development, lives and achievements. Without sacrificing one’s distinctiveness, this kind of connection promotes personal growth and mutual support.
What’s The Difference Between Interdependent And Codependent Relationships?
Maintaining positive dynamics in relationships requires an understanding of the differences between codependent and interdependent partnerships. Codependency frequently results in destructive patterns and emotional upheaval, whereas interdependence fosters balance and mutual growth (Sels et al., 2016).
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How Do I Know If I’m In An Interdependent Relationship?
You can evaluate the state of your relationship by identifying the hallmark signs that suggest an interdependent relationship. The following are some distinctive indications that your relationship is interdependent:
Healthy Communication: You discuss problems and find constructive solutions to disagreements with your partner in an honest and open manner.
Mutual Respect: Both respect each other’s boundaries, viewpoints and personalities.
Shared Goals: You encourage each other’s personal goals while cooperating to achieve shared objectives.
Emotional Support: Without losing sight of who they are, each partner offers emotional support and encouragement.
Balanced Responsibilities: Decision-making, finances and household duties are distributed fairly.
Personal Space: Without feeling guilty or resentful, everyone is free to follow their hobbies and spend time with friends or alone.
Empathy and Understanding: Both partners try to comprehend one another’s thoughts and feelings and engage in empathy. (Smith, 2022)
What Can I Do To Make My Relationship Interdependent?
It takes communication, respect, and effort for one another to build an interdependent connection. The following actions can help you encourage interdependence in your partnership:
Set Healthy Boundaries: Set and honor individual boundaries. Make sure that both of you are at ease expressing their boundaries and that you have communicated your requirements.
Encourage Independence: Encourage your partner to follow their own interests and goals. Encourage one another to pursue their own hobbies and spend some time apart.
Foster Open Communication: Develop the practice of freely sharing your ideas, emotions and worries with each other. Be sure to validate each other’s experiences and engage in active listening.
Share Responsibilities: Assign equal weight to financial responsibilities, decision-making responsibilities and housework. Make sure there is respect and value for both partners.
Support Personal Growth: Encourage one another to work on improving themselves and achieving personal goals. Celebrate successes and offer support when things are tough.
Practice Empathy: Develop understanding and empathy in your relationships. Make an effort to understand your partner’s point of view and provide compassionate assistance.
Spend Quality Time Together: Make time for each other as well as for yourself. Take part in activities that help you grow closer and make memories together.
Can A Relationship That Isn’t Interdependent Become Interdependent?
Indeed, if both parties put in effort and dedication, a relationship lacking interdependence might develop into one. To help with this transition, consider the following actions (Tanasugarn, 2022):
Acknowledge the Issue: In order to change the dynamic, both partners must acknowledge their increased dependency and communicate their willingness to do so.
Seek Professional Help: Couples therapy or counseling can help to address underlying problems and establish healthy communication habits.
Focus on Self-Improvement: Promote personal development and self-awareness. Building independence and dignity should be a joint effort between the partners.
Reestablish Boundaries: Establish and honor new boundaries that support personal space and individuality.
Develop New Communication Skills: Improve understanding and resolution of disputes by learning and using effective communication skills.
Redefine Roles: In order to maintain a fair and equal collaboration, reassess and reassign duties.
Commit to Change: Making healthy adjustments and sticking by one another during the process must be a shared commitment between the partners.
The Bottom Line
Healthy boundaries, emotional support and mutual respect are the cornerstones of interdependent relationships. Both individuals can flourish in interdependent relationships while preserving their uniqueness, in contrast to codependent relationships, which can be oppressive and unbalanced.
You can build a happy and healthy relationship by sharing responsibilities, promoting open communication and supporting personal development. Even if there isn’t much interdependence in your relationship right now, it can develop into a stronger, more dependable partnership with commitment and work.
References
Written By: Dr. Wasif MD
Edited by: Madison Vargas, BS
Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Kyle Zrenchik, PhD, LMFT
Published : 22/07/24
Disclaimer: ALL IN Therapy Clinic aims to improve people’s lives. We do this through providing effective mental health counseling by passionate professionals. Inspired by this, we write content for your own education. Also, our content is researched, cited, reviewed, and edited by licensed mental health professionals. However, the information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, it should not be used in place of the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.
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