Estudos de Psicologia (Campinas) (Mar 2025)

Experiences of emotional dependency in lesbian couples

  • Rosaluz Alheli Subileta-Yangali,
  • Sheyla Guisell Rojas-Vargas,
  • Eli Malvaceda-Espinoza

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-0275202542e220021
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 42

Abstract

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Abstract Objective This study seeks to analyze the experiences of emotional dependency in lesbian couples from a private university in Metropolitan Lima. Method The study is qualitative with a phenomenological design. A semi-structured in-depth interview was applied to 6 lesbian couples and a hybrid thematic content analysis was conducted. Results They prioritized their partners, which led to the modification of their activities to give them more space, and hunger for affection based on the demand for contact with their partner. There was also a need to please, seeking approval and taking the blame for problems; and they felt fear of rejection, especially in the face of a possible breakup. Conclusão In conclusion, the experiences of dependency in these couples hindered the fulfillment of activities of their choice and the need for attention, with the constant desire to be included and the fear of not being loved, inhibiting the normal development of the relationship.

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