Oftentimes these traits develop within the context of a significant loss or rejection and dependent people believe (even if they aren't consciously aware of it) they have to assume a more submissive role in order to find the sense of connection they seek. (theeverygirl.com)
Women are at risk of subconsciously adopting a more submissive role in cross-sex friendships, he said, although that is slowly changing as society begins to treat both genders more equally. (psychologytoday.com)
And to a certain extent that is a kind of submissive role. (moussemagazine.it)