Dependence

Dependence Definition

Dependence is the state of being connected to and subordinate to another entity or system, representing a condition often contrasted with self-reliance. This concept manifests across various sociological domains, ranging from individual relationships and medical conditions to macro-level economic and political structures.

Economic and Development Context

In the sociology of development and economic growth, dependence describes a situation where less developed countries (LDCs) rely on inputs—such as financial aid, technical expertise, or military support—from advanced industrial states in order to achieve growth. Dependency theorists have argued that this relationship constitutes a limiting condition detrimental to the long-term economic and political interests of these states.

Personal and Relational Dependence

On an individual level, dependence is used to describe various interpersonal relationships, including emotional, financial, or political reliance on others. Research has also explored specific relational dynamics, such as the financial dependence of married women on their husbands, particularly when the male partner is not engaged in paid employment.

Medical Context

In a medical context, the term is often synonymous with addiction, frequently associated with substance abuse, such as drug addiction and alcoholism.