etera. The enabler rushes to the aid of the abuser rescuing them from facing any form of consequences for their actions. Therefore, since the abuser never has to face any of the repercussions of what they have done they continue their destructive behavior and the enabler continues to rescue them. This is a vicious cycle that where each individual in this relationship feeds off the other in order to continue.
             Both the enabler and the abuser usually have some deep seeded emotional issues that compel them to continue their destructive behaviors. They are both addicted to the behaviors they exhibit because they are trying to fill an emptiness in their inner being. The enabler and the abuser attract each other because in this dysfunctional relationship, the abuser can continue to abuse while protected and the enabler can protect which gives them, a feeling of self worth. As a result, both individuals ended up sinking further into self-destruction while fulfilling each other¡s needs. This is the core of codependency, one relying on the other to continue addictive behaviors.
             Critics contend that codependency is not a legitimate disease. They believe that codependence is a broadly categorized term that psychologist developed to classify all Americans who experience any form of irresponsible family related issues. Westermeyer states,
             ¡§Accountability for our happiness is a scary thing, Codependency allows one to relinquish responsibility for our frustrating lifestyles. Plus we can dump all the blame on our parents, something psychodynamic people have been advocating for almost a century¡ (3).
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             I agree with Dr. Westermeyer, codependency is too broadly catego...