Dr. Rick Patternson reveal some of the qualities predatory narcissists look for in a partner to greenlight their exploitative behavior.
Sociotropy
Sociotropy is a term used to describe a personality characteristic where individuals place an excessive emphasis on the importance of social relationships.
Sociotropic people often prioritize social connection above personal independence. This personality style, frequently examined within social psychology, is marked by a strong desire for social acceptance, often leading to excessive nurturing behavior even towards casual acquaintances.
To maintain social harmony and avoid rejection, individuals with sociotropic tendencies may use people-pleasing as a coping mechanism, i.e. they may suppress their own needs and desires to accommodate others, go out of their way to please others even at personal expense, and compromise their values to avoid conflict.
In contrast to autonomy, where individuals prioritize self-reliance and independence, sociotropic people emphasize the significance of social bonds. Research consistently links sociotropy with a heightened vulnerability to depression, particularly when coupled with interpersonal stressors or traumatic experiences.
Furthermore, studies have shown a correlation between sociotropy and feminine sex-role orientation, suggesting a potential link between this personality trait and societal expectations of women.