Relationship Codependency
The White Knight Syndrome
Written by Randi Fine
Narcissistic Abuse Awareness and Guidance with Randi Fine
Relationship codependency is often referred to as the “White Knight” syndrome, because codependent people tend to be rescuers. Roughly 100 million Americans suffer from this emotional disorder.
In general terms, codependency is the relationship that exists between everyone and everything. In order to live emotionally healthy lives, we all must have relationships.
But unhealthy relationship codependency can be and usually is a debilitating addiction. It is a psychological dependence on painful, frustrating, and unequal relationships.
There are three types of codependents; the enablers, the persecutors, and the victims. Throughout a codependent’s relationship with his or her love addiction all three parts will be played, whether simultaneously or separately.
Relationship codependents are primarily concerned with the needs of others. Their own feelings, desires, and needs are rarely prioritized. Rescuers with a compulsive need to help, nurture and/or control others, relationship codependents are typically drawn to those lacking stability and/or those who act irresponsibly in a particular area of their life.