Relationship Dynamics Vocabulary

excessive emotional or psychological reliance on a partner

“The therapist helped them identify patterns of codependency.”

Origin: Coined in the context of Alcoholics Anonymous (late 20th century)

the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit

“Healthy relationships are built on reciprocity.”

Origin: Latin reciprocus (moving backward and forward)

describing one-sided relationships, typically between a fan and a celebrity

“Social media has increased the prevalence of parasocial relationships.”

Origin: Para- (beside) + social

mutual dependence between things

“Economic globalization created deep interdependence between nations.”

Origin: Inter- + dependence

a line that marks the limits of an area; a psychological limit

“Setting clear boundaries is essential for self-care.”

Origin: Old French bodne (boundary)

the way different people or groups interact when one has more power than the other

“We need to address the power dynamic in this negotiation.”

Origin: Modern distinct phrase

a psychological model describing the dynamics of long-term interpersonal relationships

“His avoidant attachment style made intimacy difficult.”

Origin: Psychological theory developed by John Bowlby