WHealing the Hidden Wounds of Invalidation – Understanding the Roots of Codependency
Lisa A. Romano reveals how chronic emotional neglect and childhood invalidation lay the groundwork for adult codependency. When a child grows up unseen or dismissed, they internalize the belief that their worth depends on others’ approval, creating an ongoing cycle of self-doubt and emotional dependence. In adulthood, this manifests as over-functioning, people – pleasing, and difficulty feeling secure in relationships. Romano reframes codependency not as weakness but as a trauma – based survival strategy that once kept the child safe. Recovery begins with awareness – learning to see codependency as a symptom of unmet childhood needs – and rebuilding a self-concept rooted in self-trust and inner validation rather than external approval.