The Neuroscience of Codependency for Client Understanding and Treatment Professional Resource Article
Abstract: Research on codependency is scant as it is not a formal disorder in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association, 5th Edition. There is also not a specific medication to treat it, hence funding may be challenging but is necessary as most of us exhibit codependent behaviors at some time throughout our lifespan. Codependents who seek mental health treatment are likely to be involved with those who have disorders such as substance abuse or Cluster B personality disorders. People who are narcissistic, antisocial or who have borderline personality disorder manipulate and exploit others and codependents are altruistic and enjoy giving to others. This creates a dysfunctional foundation of attraction. The fear of abandonment drives both the codependent and the narcissist or borderline. In this context, codependency will be viewed as narcissism in reverse. Narcissists are hyper-focused on themselves, and codependents derive physiological pleasure focusing on others. Assisting the client with psychoeducation will help them to understand their maladaptive physiological reactivity. Nonjudgmental mentoring of why and how they give
to be of benefit to others and a detriment to themselves expedites the therapeutic process. Helping a codependent understand the neuroscience of their behaviors will cause them to feel less embarrassment or shame that impairs positive outcomes in therapy. Help your client with neuroscience education: Codependent clients can be resistant to treatment because they believe they are being selfless and kind, but they are relieving their anxiety by people pleasing and approval seeking. Teaching a client about the neuroscience of this issue can be a turning point in codependent recovery. Imparting the complex cause and effect of how a codependent brain maladapts can help the clinician guide the client to healthier relationships and selfcompassion. Early development, attachment, and trauma bonds The brain develops early in the womb, beginning with the neural plate and the neurons we have from birth remain through life.
