Bowen Family Theory 8 Concepts: #1 Differentiation: Togetherness

Differentiation is a core concept of Bowen Family Theory and the first of 8 concepts, but intrinsic to this, is the need to understand the forces of Togetherness and Individuality. Bowen family systems therapy is less about techniques but more about how you are and what you see in a session. This Video will help!

We are designed to be connected, to be together. That's a part of what it means to be fully human, and at the same time, we are also designed to be a unique individual. Operating within all of us are two opposing and contradictory forces, one pushes us to be in a relationship, with our partner, our friends, and our family of origin. The other drives us to celebrate our autonomy and to be independent way from others. Murray Bowen believed that balancing these two forces, togetherness, and individuality, is a fundamental aspect of human relationships. It is what allows us to form deep connections and maintain a marriage, with others while also maintaining our sense of self.

Differentiation of self is the key to navigating these opposing forces. It is the process of developing and maintaining a clear sense of self while also remaining connected to others. When we are highly differentiated, we are able to express our needs and desires while also being open to the input and influence of those around us.

[tunaspew]

great videos on systemic practice. these understandings are very rare in the australian mental health landscape unfortunately, since we don't have any licensure processes, and conventional psychologists only learn CBT/DBT and maybe ACT, absolutely no training in systemic work. thankfully i've had a fantastic supervisor trained in systemic work, and am now doing a master of clinical family therapy. your videos are so useful for undergraduate students that I teach as well as helping me brush up, thank you!