Emotional Dependency

Abstract

Addiction is defined as a chronic and relapsing disorder characterized by an individual’s gradual loss of control over the use of a substance or the engagement in a behavior, and the continuation of this behavior despite the resulting physical, psychological, social, or economic harm. Addiction can generally be classified into three main categories: substance addiction, behavioral addiction, and emotional addiction. Emotional addiction is an unhealthy relational pattern that emerges when an individual becomes excessively dependent on another person to meet emotional needs and largely defines self-worth through the relationship. Characterized by symptoms such as an intense fear of abandonment, constant need for approval, jealousy, and difficulties in setting boundaries, emotional addiction is associated with early childhood experiences, insecure attachment styles, low self-esteem, and psychological vulnerabilities. The aim of this article is to address the phenomenon of addiction from a multidimensional perspective, with a particular focus on examining the definition, causes, symptoms, and psychosocial effects of emotional addiction on the individual. Additionally, by evaluating the relationship between emotional addiction and other types of addiction, the study seeks to present a comprehensive theoretical framework that contributes to the existing literature. In order to examine the phenomenon of emotional addiction in depth, a qualitative research method was adopted. The data collection process was based entirely on a review of the existing literature. The literature review was conducted using studies obtained from journals, books, and databases, and the selected research was systematically evaluated. Thematic analysis was employed in the analysis of the data. Accordingly, the conceptual structures identified in the reviewed studies were systematically classified and interpreted.