The Relationship Between Chronic Fatigue and Dispositional Optimism in Codependent Individuals

Relevance. Codependency is now becoming an independent unit of not only psychological, but also clinical practice. Codependent individuals frequently experience a decline in overall well-being, which can manifest as chronic fatigue. However, due to the heightened tension of psychological defense mechanisms, they more often seek help with concerns related to significant others while ignoring their own needs. The aim is to examine the relationship between chronic fatigue and dispositional optimism in codependent individuals. Methodology. The research was conducted at The Russian Christian Academy for the Humanities named after Fyodor Dostoevsky, in several support communities for relatives of individuals with addictions, and via the online platform Google Forms. A total of 253 participants aged 18 to 71 were assessed using clinical-psychological methods. Codependency levels were measured using the Codependency Relationship Scale (J.L. Fischer, L. Spann). To determine the degree of chronic fatigue of the participants the method “Degree of chronic fatigue” (A.B. Leonova, I.V. Shishkina) was used. Expectations regarding the future were evaluated with the “Dispositional optimism test” (T.O. Gordeeva, O.A. Sychev, E.N. Osin). Empirical data ware analyzed using descriptive statisticsand mathematical statistical data processing methods. Results and discussion. The study established that codependency level, chronic fatigue, and dispositional optimism are interrelated. Higher levels of codependency correspond to more pronounced symptoms of chronic fatigue, accompanied by a decrease in dispositional optimism. Conclusion. The results may be applied in the development and planning of clinical-psychological intervention programs for individuals with codependency, with an emphasis on early identification and prevention.