In this enlightening episode of "Beyond Codependency," host Jenna Dayle delves into the intricate dynamics of codependent communication struggles. Jenna unpacks five common communication pitfalls experienced by those in codependency or codependent relationships and why they can feel like such challenging patterns.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to begin to understand and transform their communication patterns and foster healthier, more open, honest relationships.
Key Topics Covered:
- Suppression/Repression of Personal Needs and Desires: Jenna speaks on the challenge of suppressing your personal feelings, believing them to be less important or valid than those of others. This doubt in the validity of your feelings, needs and wants shows up as silence, "okayness" or denial.
- Indirect and Avoidant: Jenna shares how codependent individuals often communicate indirectly, using hints or passive-aggressive behavior instead of direct statements. This pattern stems from a deep fear of conflict, leading them to avoid disagreements, or make light of/change the subject on difficult conversations. They may also struggle to say no, feeling guilty or anxious about declining requests, which further complicates clear and direct communication.
- Over-Responsibility and People-Pleasing: Jenna points out how people-pleasing is a prevalent trait in codependency, where individuals agree to requests out of fear of disappointing others, often ignoring their own limits. This is linked to a tendency to over-apologize, prioritize what other's have to say,
let others dominate conversations and decisions, and take on undue responsibility of managing others' feelings, prioritizing others' needs above their own and compromising their own well-being.
- Boundary Issues: Jenna speaks to how setting and maintaining boundaries can be particularly challenging for those with codependency issues. They may have inconsistent boundaries, take back what is said, make light of a limit they recently set - allowing others to overstep their limits due to a fear of disapproval or abandonment.
- Manipulation and Control Dynamics: Jenna shares on her own experience of resorting to emotional manipulation, using guilt, pity, or convincing tactics to influence others' actions, opinions, choices or feelings. They often over-explain or justify their decisions and feelings, feeling the need to validate their choices to others.
Links:
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Keywords: Codependency, Enmeshment, Personal Growth, Self-Esteem, Emotional Regulation, Boundaries, Healthy Relationships, Jenna Dayle, Beyond Codependency Podcast, Dating Advice, Relationship Advice, Communication, Healthy boundaries, Self-love, Assertive communication
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