According to some clinical studies, the socio-family background of people with emotional dependency could act as vulnerability factors, if they have been or may be suffering emotional or physical abuse in their family or social environment , both from direct relatives and from romantic partners.

Another risk factor is the presence of a psychopathological profile in the dependent person associated with emotional dependency disorder . Common comorbidities in these individuals include depression and anxiety , which are generally related to fear of separation or loss of the relationship and loneliness, as well as personality disorders and substance abuse .

In addition, some authors suggest that behaviors such as separation anxiety and the constant search for affectionate expression from the partner can lead these people to experience heightened anxiety and feelings of inferiority.

Some common traits of these people are:

• They experience fear of loneliness.
• They have a low tolerance for frustration and boredom,
• They feel an emotional void.
• They have self-destructive desires and suicidal thoughts or attempts.
• They have low self-esteem and a negative self-concept that does not reflect reality.