Unraveling Control: The Hidden Dynamics of Codependency Under Heteronormative Pressure
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Authors
Downey, Madeleine
Issue Date
2025-09-26
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
cultural scripts , codependency , heteronormativity , depth psychology , romantic partnerships , healing
Alternative Title
Abstract
The purpose of this graduate research project is to explore the ways in which heteronormative cultural scripts and power relations shape codependent dynamics within adult romantic partnerships. It begins by uncovering how heterosexual cisgender norms become deeply embedded in our institutions, interpersonal expectations, and internalized ideals of love and belonging. From there, it traces the evolution of the codependency concept—from its early framing in addiction recovery to its contemporary reformulation within family‐systems and attachment theories—as a relational survival strategy rather than an individual pathology. In doing so, this paper highlights key blind spots in prevailing therapeutic models, which often treat codependency as a purely intrapsychic or dyadic malfunction while overlooking the broader sociocultural forces that give rise to and sustain these patterns. Finally, this work lays the groundwork for a more integrative, depth-oriented approach—one that attends not only to personal and relational factors but also to the unconscious and cultural narratives that underlie them. By weaving together social constructionist, systemic, and depth-psychology perspectives, this analysis ultimately points toward therapeutic practices capable of fostering genuine relational autonomy, authenticity, and healing.