doted

Doted is a word used to describe a particular type of romantic attachment or care. When a person dotes on someone, they show excessive affection and attention. This often involves spoiling the object of their affection with gifts, constant praise, and a general indulgence of their desires. While the intention behind doting is typically love and care, it can sometimes be perceived as overbearing or stifling by the recipient. It can also lead to the person being doted upon becoming accustomed to constant attention and potentially less independent.

The act of doting can manifest in various relationships, most commonly seen between parents and children, or between romantic partners. Parents who dote on their children might fulfill every whim and shield them from any hardship, which can sometimes hinder a child's development of resilience and problem-solving skills. In romantic relationships, doting can be a sign of deep adoration, but if it becomes one-sided or manipulative, it can create an unhealthy power dynamic. The term itself suggests a focus on providing and cherishing, sometimes to the point of losing sight of the other person's true needs or the broader context of the relationship. It implies a gentle, perhaps even slightly foolish, excess of fondness and attention.