Codependent Christians: Some Issues for Church-Based Recovery Groups

Abstract

Codependents who are Christians often wrestle with theological as well as psychological issues in working through codependent behavior. In such cases, the church-based group can provide a unique setting for restructuring belief systems that may incorporate Scripture. This environment can also provide a safe place for self-revelation among Christians who share a community and a common faith. This article outlines an approach to the integration of scriptural and psychological principles in addressing codependence. Based on suggested biblical passages and Cermak & Brown's (1982) five core issues of codependence–-control, trust, personal needs, responsibility, and feeling–-a framework is provided for discussion and intervention in the group setting. The authors note the advantages of using this approach for both the group and the church in which it is based.