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Self Tests > Relationships > Overfunctioning Test
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Overfunctioning Test

20 Questions
3 Minutes

Do you do too much for your partner?

People who “overfunction” in their relationship manage not only their own responsibilities and emotions but their partner’s, too. Overfunctioning people appear high-achieving, but beneath the facade, they’re often anxious and resentful. Are you doing too much? Take this test to find out.

Using the key below, answer the questions based on how strongly you agree or disagree with the statement.

Strongly Disagree
Disagree
Neutral
Strongly Agree
Agree
1. I do the majority of household chores in my relationship.
Disagree
Agree
2. I feel anxious when my partner is in charge of something important, like booking a flight.
Disagree
Agree
3. I meticulously plan social outings to make sure my partner won't get bored.
Disagree
Agree
4. Whenever a new problem arises, I’m usually the one to jump in to fix it.
Disagree
Agree
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5. I lack time to take care of myself because I’m doing so much for our relationship.
Disagree
Agree
6. It bothers me when my partner doesn’t take my advice on a problem.
Disagree
Agree
7. When I want my partner to achieve a goal, such as exercising more, I create a plan for them to follow.
Disagree
Agree
8. I need to remind my partner to do routine personal tasks, like taking their medication.
Disagree
Agree
9. I often answer questions that are directed at my partner.
Disagree
Agree
10. I frequently check in with my partner to make sure they’re doing what they plan to do.
Disagree
Agree
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11. I feel calmer when I’m the one who’s in control of our responsibilities.
Disagree
Agree
12. If my partner tells me they can handle something important, I believe them.
Disagree
Agree
13. Even if I try to delegate a task to my partner, I usually end up doing it myself anyway.
Disagree
Agree
14. When my partner does a task, such as loading the dishwasher, I often need to supervise.
Disagree
Agree
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15. If I took a break from handling everything, our life would completely fall apart.
Disagree
Agree
16. I sometimes focus more on meeting my partner’s needs than meeting my own.
Disagree
Agree
17. I pass along helpful, unsolicited articles to my partner.
Disagree
Agree
18. I have felt more like a parent than a partner in my relationship.
Disagree
Agree
19. Unless they ask for my help, I let my partner handle their own problems.
Disagree
Agree
20. Doing something myself is usually easier than asking my partner to handle it.
Disagree
Agree

Who Is This Overfunctioning Test For?

This test is for anyone wondering if their romantic relationship may be reflective of an overfunctioning-underfunctioning dynamic, in which one partner takes on much more than the other. It is intended for adults and is not intended to be prescriptive.

We value your privacy - see how we protect the info you provide when you take this test.

How to Get Help with Overfunctioning

If you are concerned about doing too much in your romantic relationship, talking to a therapist, either individually or with your partner, could help. Find a professional in your area in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.

Sources

  • Lin, M. Rebecoming. “High Functioning or Overfunctioning?”
  • Klever, P. Divergent Spouse Functioning Scale.