TsButterfly

I'm not sure if this is the correct forum put my question into but here goes...

Can someone please explain to me what the difference (if any) is between a Co-dependent and an Enabler?

Jazzman

Good question. I see them as two different things but enabling is a very common trait of codependency. But you don't have to be a codependent to enable, for instance, parents often unknowingly enable undesirable behaviors of their children. I see codependency as a personality disorder and enabling as a poor choice in relationship interaction and dynamics.

From Meridian:

codependency

Main Entry: co·de·pen·den·cy
Pronunciation: \-dən(t)-sē\
Function: noun
Date: 1979
: a psychological condition or a relationship in which a person is controlled or manipulated by another who is affected with a pathological condition (as an addiction to alcohol or heroin); broadly : dependence on the needs of or control by another

enabler

Main Entry: en·abler
Pronunciation: \i-ˈnā-blər, -bəl-ər\
Function: noun
Date: 1615
: one that enables another to achieve an end; especially : one who enables another to persist in self-destructive behavior (as substance abuse) by providing excuses or by making it possible to avoid the consequences of such behavior

SlvrMag

Good Question, Good Answer!!

TsButterfly

Thank you Jazzman.
I did a little research myself. You put it into more layman terms for me.
I guess that I fall more into the Enabler catagory than I do a Co-dependent.

theotherone

I think I am a codependant enabler!

TsButterfly

LOL!
I think I better re-assess myself.