differentiationPending Verification
Type: framework Aliases: self-differentiationemotional differentiation
- Systems Analogy A two-way window screen that lets fresh air circulate into the room while keeping out mosquitoes and rain.
- Formal Definition The psychological and somatic capacity to maintain distinct personal boundaries and autonomous functioning while staying in emotional connection with others.
Mentioned In
Scientific Sources & Literature Citations
- [1] Empirical Study Bowen M. Family Therapy in Clinical Practice. Jason Aronson; 1978. ↗
"Differentiation is the ability to be in emotional contact with others yet still autonomous in one's emotional functioning."