Codependent Martyr Syndrome. Some codependents rationalize, or repackage, their codependency traits into what they believe to be positive behaviors. Their codependency becomes a badge of honor of sorts, to be worn proudly—and often. These individuals experience what I refer to as the codependent martyr syndrome.
Codependent martyrs are intensely proud of their selfless, sacrificial, and long-suffering approach to their relationships. Their identity and self-esteem becomes fused with their codependency. These martyrs are proud and even boastful about how much they do for others as well as how much they sacrifice in their lives.
These belief patterns are often impacted by their family values that are passed down from one generation to the next. This transgenerational pattern is often influenced by regional, ethnic, cultural or religious beliefs and practices.
By Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed, LCPC, CADC
Psychotherapist, Author, Educator, Expert Witness
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