The Common Link

The common link between these types is a lack of self-esteem. This often traces back to upbringing. A perfectionist may come from a family in which mistakes were criticized. A dependent could have been told they made bad decisions and finally stopped trying.

San Diego writer Mike Hernacki believes his lack of confidence and indecisiveness came from his strict upbringing. His parents avoided praising or complimenting their children. “I could bring home 10 As and a B and my father would say, ‘What’s with the B?’”