A co-dependent relationship is a one-sided relationship in which one partner depends on the other for fulfillment. The co-dependent partner often exhibits signs of clinginess. Co-dependent people do not feel they are worthless and therefore refuse to accept anything from others. Co-dependent people find self-worth in gaining their partners approval.

Many factors lead to codependent relationships such as, 1.) physical and emotional abuse, 2.) mental or physical illness, and 3.) addiction. Many people do not acknowledge their personal problems, and repress their emotions. These people ignore their emotions and focus on the well being of others instead.

Co-dependency is an inherited behavior that affects many relationships, without the people even realizing it is a problem. This behavior damages both people in the relationship because one person is constantly caring and doing everything for their partner, and the partner becomes so reliant, that they are unable to do anything without the help of their partner.