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05 - DEPENDÊNCIA EMOCIONAL NOS RELACIONAMENTOS AFETIVOS: IMPACTOS NA AUTOESTIMA E NO BEM-ESTAR PSICOLÓGICO

Doi: 10.47094/IVCOLUBRASC.2026/RS/5

PALAVRAS CHAVE: Autonomia. Vínculos. Relações interpessoais.

KEYWORDS: Autonomy. Bonds. Interpersonal relationships.

ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Affective relationships constitute an important dimension of the human experience and can contribute to feelings of belonging, security, and support. However, certain relationships may be characterized by an intense need for approval, a persistent fear of abandonment, difficulty in setting boundaries, and an excessive reliance on a partner to meet one’s emotional needs. These characteristics are frequently discussed in psychological literature through the lens of emotional dependency and can cause significant distress when they interfere with an individual’s autonomy and daily functioning. Objective: To understand the characteristics associated with emotional dependency in affective relationships and to analyze their potential impact on self-esteem and psychological functioning. Methodology: A descriptive literature review was conducted, examining scientific publications in the field of psychology concerning emotional dependency, affective bonds, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships. The analysis focused on identifying recurring characteristics and the psychosocial consequences described in the literature. Results: The studies analyzed link emotional dependency to behaviors such as an excessive search for approval, difficulty being without a partner, a fear of rejection or abandonment, the subordination of one’s own needs, and difficulty in establishing boundaries within relationships. Such patterns may be associated with reduced autonomy, insecurity, emotional distress, and the persistence of unsatisfactory relationships. Self-esteem plays a significant role in this context, as a negative self-perception can drive a constant search for external validation. Nevertheless, these manifestations must be understood by taking into account each individual’s personal history, relational patterns, and social context. Final Considerations: Understanding emotional dependency requires an approach that avoids generalizations and accounts for the complexity of affective bonds. Psychological interventions aimed at strengthening autonomy and self-esteem, recognizing one’s own needs, and establishing boundaries can foster more balanced interpersonal relationships and contribute to overall well-being.

Autores

  • Renan Luís Ribeiro Martins

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