Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Practice

In the context of addiction, what does codependence refer to?

1. Healthy interdependence among family members

2. Shared responsibility in family conflicts

3. Maladaptive behaviors learned to survive emotional stress

4. Strong emotional boundaries

The correct answer is: Maladaptive behaviors learned to survive emotional stress

Codependence in the context of addiction is characterized by maladaptive behaviors that individuals often develop as a way to cope with emotional stress rooted in dysfunctional relationships, typically involving an individual struggling with substance use. These behaviors can include excessive reliance on others for emotional support, difficulty in recognizing one's own needs, and a tendency to prioritize the needs of an addicted person over their own. This complex relationship dynamic often leads to enabling behaviors, where the codependent individual may unintentionally support the addiction by taking on responsibilities or covering up for the individual’s substance use. Such patterns can perpetuate the cycle of addiction and can hinder both parties from seeking the necessary help to break free from these unhealthy dynamics. In contrast, healthy interdependence, shared responsibility in family conflicts, and strong emotional boundaries represent more positive or functional ways of relating to one another—qualities that actually contradict the nature of codependence. Understanding codependence is crucial for counselors as they address family systems and relationships impacted by addiction.