Human dependence

Dependency

Nature

Dependency in individuals relates to inability to make decisions, and the inclination to rely on others to initiate or lead in behaviour, while requiring them to be supportive, either materially, psychologically or emotionally. Dependency is normal for a child, and in some measure is normal for the infirm and elderly. In adults, dependent behaviour may prevent the development of full individuality. Dependent nations exhibit all of the foregoing traits. In addition, the well-known compensating psychology of dependence emerges among the pendant nations, that is, very demanding, very critical and accusative behaviour.

Claim

Dependence, like dominance, is a fact of life in world affairs. The absence of a "contract" prevents effective symbiosis, with responsiveness and sensitivity on the part of the dominant and responsibility and honour on the part of the subordinate. A muted tension exists between local and national governments; in the USA and the USSR between the governments of states and autonomous regions and Washington or Moscow; and childish reactions of weaker to stronger nations may be cited in the attitude of some western European nations to the military might of the USA, of Commonwealth countries towards the UK, and the previous French colonies and territories towards France.