In relationships, adaptability is often seen as a strength—being open to compromise, understanding your partner’s needs and adjusting when necessary. But what happens when you become so adaptable that you lose sight of yourself?

Some people develop a pattern of blending into their relationships, shaping their personality, interests and even emotions to match their partner’s. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as “chameleoning,” is gaining attention as a dating trend, but it’s far more than that.

At its core, chameleoning is a learned survival mechanism, often rooted in childhood experiences of unpredictability or emotional instability. For many, it starts in households where emotions could shift without warning—where blending in meant avoiding conflict, rejection or criticism.

But when this pattern follows you into adulthood, it can blur the line

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