Codependency Checklists for Teenagers

Codependency in teenagers is relatively common, as adolescence is a significant time of transition. Friendships that begin in the teenage years are constantly evolving, hopefully growing into long-lasting and healthy relationships. Unfortunately, many factors, like peer pressure and low self-esteem, can derail the process, leading to codependency. Teenagers exhibit many of the same symptoms of codependency that are common in adults, like addictive behavior and mood fluctuations, but the signs and manifestations can become exaggerated due to maturity level. Teenagers and their parents can use checklists to recognize signs of a codependent disorder, helping them accept a sense of responsibility to face the issue.

Ignoring His Own Needs

• One of the first symptoms that often manifests in codependent teenage relationships is that the codependent person begins to ignore his own needs in favor of meeting another person's. The phenomenon can be seen in the academic arena, manifesting as lowered grades and decreased participation in school clubs or groups. The codependent teen may also spend the majority of his own money on a partner or friend, neglecting personal purchases. While this behavior begins as a selfless act, it may progress to a neurosis or obsession.

Isolation From Other Peers

• Codependent teens are prone to isolate themselves with a partner. While normal relationships develop in the same basic way, with one-on-one time with a friend, the codependent relationship becomes exclusive, to the detriment of the teen's friends and family. If a parent or teenager recognizes this behavior, it can be quelled by encouraging group activities and family functions, which include both people in the codependent relationship.

Low Self-Esteem

• Despite the initial "high" many teens feel when beginning a new relationship, the relationship can become dangerous if it does not live up to the codependent teen's expectations. A teen may become depressed and suffer from a crisis of identity if the relationship begins to sour, which can lead to the symptoms of low self-esteem. Address low self-esteem quickly, most commonly in a safe, therapeutic setting with a mental health professional.

Addictive Behaviors

• Codependency can cause addictive behavior in teens. Peer pressure seems to be magnified in a codependent relationship, leading to increased incidence of drug use and abuse. Many times, an addictive behavior is the first major sign that a codependent relationship is forming. In this case, traditional addiction therapy can be the first step to recovery.