Comparison of defense mechanisms, family functionality, and attachment styles of codependent individuals with and without dependent relatives

"Codependency" term was first used to conceptualize dependent relatives' behavior patterns and the dynamics of the relationship established with a dependent individual. Later on, studies identified that codependency is not specific to alcohol or substance users' relatives. Individuals who do not have dependent family members also show codependency characteristics, which differ in some aspects from individuals who have dependent family members. In this study, we investigated codependency in individuals with dependent relatives (clinical group) and individuals without dependent relatives (non-clinical group) by comparing in the way of personal (defense mechanisms), domestic (family functionality), and relational (attachment styles) contexts. The clinical group (n = 56) and non-clinical group (n = 59) completed Codependency Assessment Tool (CODAT), Defense Styles Questionnaire 40 (DSQ-40), McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD), and Relationship Scales Questionnaire (RSQ). We performed independent samples t-test, Pearson correlation, and hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis. Independent samples t-test results showed that the clinical group scored statistically significantly higher on CODAT (Other focus/self-neglect, self-worth, family of origin issues subscales and total), DSQ-40 (Immature defenses subscale), FAD (Failure in problem-solving, communication, family’s role distribution, affective responsiveness, general functioning subscales and total), RSQ (Preoccupied attachment subscale) than the non-clinical group. In contrast, the non-clinical group scored significantly higher on the mature defenses subscale than the clinical group. Hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis revealed that immature defenses, preoccupied attachment, and low problem-solving skills; in the non-clinical group, immature defenses and unhealthy communication significantly predicted codependency.