Dependency

Definition

Dependency refers to a state in which one individual relies on another for emotional, financial, or social support. In family relationships, dependency can manifest in various forms, affecting the dynamics and interactions between family members. Understanding dependency is crucial to analyzing power imbalances and resource exchanges in relationships, as it highlights how individuals negotiate their needs and contributions within familial settings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dependency can be both beneficial and detrimental in family relationships, as it fosters closeness but can also lead to feelings of helplessness or resentment.
2. The level of dependency often changes over time, influenced by life events such as marriage, childbirth, job loss, or aging.
3. Different types of dependency exist, including emotional dependency (relying on someone for emotional support) and financial dependency (relying on someone for financial stability).
4. Dependency can impact individual identity, leading some to feel defined by their reliance on others rather than their own achievements.
5. The concept of dependency is closely linked to social exchange theory, where individuals evaluate the costs and benefits of their relationships based on their dependence on others.

Review Questions

• How does dependency influence power dynamics within family relationships?
  • Dependency can significantly affect power dynamics in family relationships by creating imbalances in authority and control. When one member is more dependent on another for emotional or financial support, this can lead to a situation where the more independent individual holds greater power. This dynamic can create challenges in decision-making processes and affect the overall health of the relationship, as the dependent individual may feel vulnerable or at a disadvantage.
• In what ways can dependency foster both positive and negative outcomes within familial interactions?
  • Dependency can lead to positive outcomes like strengthened bonds and increased support during challenging times, promoting trust and cooperation among family members. However, it can also have negative effects, such as feelings of resentment or entitlement when one member feels overly burdened by another's needs. The balance between these outcomes often depends on how well family members communicate their expectations and manage their interdependencies.
• Evaluate how changes in life circumstances might alter dependency levels in family relationships and what implications this has for social exchange theory.
  • Changes in life circumstances, such as a job loss or the birth of a child, can significantly alter dependency levels within families. For example, if one partner loses their job, the other may become more financially responsible, leading to increased financial dependency. According to social exchange theory, this shift impacts the perceived costs and benefits of the relationship; the dependent individual may feel insecure about their position while the other may struggle with added responsibility. These shifts highlight the fluid nature of dependency and its impact on relational dynamics.

Related terms

Interdependence: Interdependence is the mutual reliance between individuals or groups, where each party contributes to and benefits from the relationship.

Power Dynamics: Power dynamics refer to the ways in which power is distributed and exercised within relationships, often influencing decision-making and dependency.

Social Support: Social support encompasses the emotional, informational, and practical assistance provided by family members and friends, playing a critical role in managing dependency.