Compulsive Caretaking as Vicarious-Control Wrong Attractor: A Displacement Framework Analysis

This paper applies the Displacement Framework to compulsive caretaking, analysing it as a wrong-attractor state distinct from codependency: the compulsive caretaker uses others' wellbeing as the primary lever for managing their own anxiety and sense of control. Using displacement cost D(ξ), accumulated displacement Φ, and basin geometry, we show how displacement cost of tolerating another's autonomy or distress is elevated, while managing the other's state provides vicarious control.

Basin deepening occurs through resentment accumulation and through the helper's identity becoming structurally dependent on others needing help. Nine propositions characterise the vicarious-control mechanism, resentment accumulation loop, caretaking in helping professions, and return paths through autonomy restoration. Published as part of The Phronesis Issues preprint series.