Understanding Codependency, Updated and Expanded: The Science Behind It and How to Break the Cycle

by Sharon Wegscheider-Cruse, Joseph Cruse

The groundbreaking book "Understanding Co-Dependency" ushered in a new way of thinking about codependency and helped millions of people discover if they were co-dependent, if they were living with a co-dependent, and how to break the cycle. Now, in this revised edition, Joseph Cruse, founding medical director of The Betty Ford Center, provides findings and insights into codependency. Thirty years ago, clinicians viewed alcoholism as a liver disease; today research has revealed that addiction and many codependent behaviors are related to brain functioning. Cruse explores this brain connection and expands on the all-important issues of traumas it relates to codependency, denial, low self-esteem, and self-worth. With updated case studies and exercises, "Understanding Codependency" dispels the notion that the cycle of codependency can't be broken, offering readers a lifeline to the fulfilling relationships and lives they deserve.

Genres: Psychology, Addiction

192 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1990

Reviews

[Car · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and to the point, no waffle about higher powers etc. There are simple explanations about cause and effect, and how habits are formed. This is not a completely secular, though, as the end does point largely towards the usual 12 step programmes.

[Emily Byley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Codependency is a process/behavioral addiction, often seeking to hide low self-worth and avoid pain. Process/Behavioral addictions reinforce the science behind "neurons that fire together wire together". Addiction can also occur with chemicals your body naturally produces. Dopamine produces excitement, and it can be triggered by behaviors like running, gambling, hang gliding, etc. (pg 22). Serotonin produces comfort, and behaviors that trigger its release include overeating and relationship dependency (pg 22). Norepinephrine produces feelings of power/control, and workaholism and compulsive caretaking are typically seen behaviors (pg 22). The goal is to form new pathways through the truth of the Bible and aid in recovery. Addictive neural pathways will eventually become "Dimmed Pathways" as the mind is transformed. However, neural pathways can become "reignited" and lead to relapse. Treatment is primarily focused on negative cognitions, feelings, and behaviors. Addressing self-worth and difficult relationships is treated in "aftercare". Codependency has some degree of payoff, so be mindful of family/relational roles: Family Hero, Scapegoat, Lost Child, Enablers, Mascots.

[Lily Heron · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hadn't considered compulsive education-seeking as representing an example of external validation and perpetuating the codependent cycle before, but it makes a lot of sense. Just quietening down and slowing down feels so threatening, whereas learning is such an addictive distraction and makes me feel comforted and gives me the "evidence" of how "impressive" my reading stats are or whatever, it's honestly so depressing and probably why I prefer to keep going down the same track rather than stop, face the truth, and make a change that lasts longer than a couple of days.

[Fatima-zahra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A consistent book with deep insights about childhood psychology and family interactions, I like the analogy between codependency and other types of addictions ( Drugs, Nicotine, Alcohol, Care taking...), It make the image clearer and help to break the cycle of Codependency in their different sides!!!

[Trina Branella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent text and self help book in one.
For those who want to know the reasons why co dependency is sneaky and how it makes you feel the way you do.
Highly recommended!

[kt · Rating 2 out of 5]

this was a random assortment of stories and statements with some God thrown in the mix at the end.. helpful at its core but had no direction whatsoever

[Debbie Desotell · Rating 5 out of 5]

it was very helpful.

[Martine · Rating 3 out of 5]

One of the earlier writers on the topic