vermeidenden

Vermeidenden is a term used in German to refer to people who display avoidance as a character trait or behavioral pattern. In everyday language and in psychology, it denotes individuals who tend to avoid emotional closeness, challenging tasks, or uncomfortable situations. The expression is typically used as a plural noun: die Vermeidenden (the avoidants). It can also appear in singular form as der Vermeidende (masculine) or die Vermeidende (feminine), with the plural used without an article as Vermeidenden in declined cases (e.g., mit den Vermeidenden).

In a psychological context, Vermeidenden describe a coping style or relational pattern characterized by reluctance to engage, disclose needs, or pursue intimate contact. This can be observed in romantic relationships, friendships, or social situations. The term is not a formal DSM- or ICD-diagnostic label by itself, but it relates to broader concepts such as avoidance behavior, avoidant attachment, or avoidant personality features. Clinically, distinctions are made between general avoidance tendencies and specific disorders like avoidant personality disorder, which requires a formal assessment and criteria.

Etymologically, the word derives from the verb verbäden (vermeiden) meaning to avoid, with the present participle form vermeidend used adjectivally and then nominalized as Vermeidend/Vermeidende, plural Vermeidenden. The usage emphasizes the action or pattern of avoidance rather than a fixed identity, and it is often discussed alongside related concepts such as Vermeidung, Vermeidungsverhalten, and Vermeidungstaktiken.

See also: Vermeidung, Vermeidungsverhalten, Vermeidungstaktiken, Vermeidende Bindung, Vermeidende Persönlichkeitsmerkmale.