dependent personality disorder

n. A pervasive and enduring pattern of adjustment which is characterized by an unrealistic desire to be taken care of by others, submissiveness and clinging to others, and preoccupation with fears of abandonment. Persons with this disorder attempt to induce others to take responsibility for them, to make their decisions for them, and to reassure and nurture them constantly. They are usually uncomfortable alone and seldom take initiative to improve their own lives other than by finding someone to take charge of their lives, toward whom they feel both all-encompassing love and bitter resentment.