If the partner comes to the fore in the relationship and the individual gradually defines himself through the partner, one can speak of an emotional dependency. The care and maintenance of the relationship as well as the satisfaction of the partner become the only goal in life. Emotional dependency is most common in relationships, but it can also become a toxic part of friendships. These five signals indicate an emotional dependency.
1. Jealousy and controlling behavior
The supposed insecurity in the relationship stimulates the mental cinema of those affected – the result: jealousy  and control behavior to “play it safe”. The emotional dependency is noticeable through constant thirst for knowledge about the whereabouts of the partner and secret checking, for example of the smartphone.
2. Persistent search for confirmation
“Does he*she really love me?” – The question of whether everything is okay and the loving and constant feedback from the loved one become the focus of the relationship. The feeling of security is demanded by affection or by the partner being constantly reminded of the relationship.
3. Attachment and submissive behavior
The constant feeling of not being enough or good enough causes those affected to withdraw from themselves and always please their partner. This mechanism can range from strong attachment to submissive behavior. This is shown by the fact that the wishes of the other person come to the fore and every wish is read from their eyes.
4. Fear of loss
The romantic and loving relationship, which actually means backing and support, turns into a house of cards that could collapse at any time. The good side of the relationship falls by the wayside. Every experience with your partner is inherent in the distrust of not being loved enough and therefore being abandoned.
5. Sole purpose in life
The relationship becomes the focus of life. Own hobbies, friendships and family fade into the background. The person affected is only happy if the other person is also present and satisfied. The spiral  never ends, without friends and social support the emotional dependency continues to grow.
