Does the codependent encourage substance-dependent behavior? Paradoxical injunctions in the codependent relationship.

Abstract

It is argued that the paradoxical nature of the power structure within the codependent relationship places limits on the types of control strategies that codependents can utilize in their attempts to extinguish their partner's substance-dependent behavior. From a social exchange and learning theory perspective, it is argued that the types of control strategies that codependents utilize are not only ineffective, but they actually operate to strengthen the likelihood that substance misuse will be repeated in the future. Types of communication behaviors that codependents utilize in order to control are considered, along with ensuing implications for intervention.