CO-DEPENDENCY

 The following is a list of characteristics pointing to co-dependency: 
 
 My good feelings about who I am stem from being liked by you.  

 My good feelings about who I am stem from recieving approval by you.  

 Your struggles affect my serenity.  

 My mental attention focuses on solving your problems or relieving your 
 pain.  

 My mental attention is focused on pleasing you.  

 My mental attention is focused on protecting you.  

 My self-esteem is bolstered by relieving your pain.  

 My own hobbies and interests are put aside.  

 My time is spent sharing your interests and hobbies.  

 My social circle diminishes as I involve myself with you.  

 The quality of my life is in relation to the quality of yours.  
  

 This list is taken from "Breaking the Bonds" put out by the Portland, OR 
 ACOA Intergroup.  

                                 *