Co-dependency is the excessive emotional or psychological reliance on a partner or even our kids.

Talking Points:

  • Control vs. Empowerment. Are you over-involved in your kid’s social life and do you tend to do everything for them? Colossians 3:21
  • Skewed Priorities vs. Boundaries. Do you prioritize your kid’s demands over your own needs, responsibilities or relationships?
  • Fear vs. Strategic Confidence. Do you avoid disciplining for fear of rejection from your kids? Are you worried about being accepted by your kids? Hebrews 12:11
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. Define codependency in your own words. How have you seen codependency play out in your life or in the life of a friend/coworker?
  3. Read Colossians 3:12. How did you rate yourself on Control vs. Empowerment? Explain. How have you frustrated your kids with over involvement in the past? What’s a healthier way to support your kids in times of struggle?
  4. How did you rate yourself on Priorities vs. Boundaries? Explain. Why do parents tend to give in to their kid’s every whim? How can that be damaging to them?
  5. Read Hebrews 12:11. How did you rate yourself on Fear vs. Strategic Confidence? Explain. What is hard about discipline for you as a parent? What qualities/behaviors do you want you to train in your kids?
  6. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?