‘Prodependence’ Is the New Codependence, and John Legend and Chrissy Teigen Are Proof That It Works
You’re probably familiar with the old relationship red flag, codependency. But have you heard about prodependency?
It’s a new term coined by sex, intimacy and relationship specialist Robert Weiss, PhD, MSW, in his book, Prodependence: Moving Beyond Codependency. In a nutshell, the term describes relationships as healthfully interdependent rather than punishing couples for being too reliant upon one another to fulfill their emotional needs. Whereas codependency is seen as enabling and harmful, prodependency is symbiotic and supportive (but not overly so).
And look, we’re not doctors…but we think John Legend and Chrissy Teigen are proof that prodependency works.
Here’s why: They’re supportive of each other (remember Chrissy’s heartfelt acceptance speech at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards?)…but also aren’t afraid to poke fun (i.e., the Arthur-meme-meets-EGOT moment). They celebrate each other not for their own emotional benefit, but just because. They work together…but pursue plenty of their own projects in the meantime.
Like we said—we’re not licensed therapists. But we’re not *not* saying John and Chrissy are relationship #goals.
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