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Enabling behavior

An enabling behavior is an action by a loved one that allows a person with an addiction to alcohol or drugs to keep drinking without facing the consequences.

Enabling might include making excuses, calling in sick, or paying legal fees for the person. These actions often can keep the person with an addiction from realizing or admitting that he or she has a problem.

Family members, partners, or friends who act this way are sometimes called "codependent."

Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Paul Lehnert
Editor Roya Camp
Editor Katy E. Magee, MA
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer James R. McKay, PhD
- Psychology
Last Updated February 15, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 15, 2008
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