I think I spelled "dependence" wrong. Crap.
Anyways, i've always been very self-dependent. Only if I really, really, really, (emphasis on the really) need help, will I ask friends for help (with schoolwork, that is). On the other hand, I am quick to help my friends if they have any problems. This is mostly because (i'm originally from Richardson) I used to be one of the 'smartest' kids in the class and have tried to hold on to that notion up until the present. I try to not show weakness, but i'm quick to show that I have knowledge.
I've never asked my parents for help. In anything. I think I want to prove to them that i'm smart enough and strong enough so i'd never asked them for help on schoolwork, and that's true even until today. This independence has carried over to our relationships though; recently noted by my mother, who has been frustrated because I never really tell her anything.