Review of A Case Study in Light of Bowen Theory: Differentiation of Self

Abstract

The major purpose of this paper is to illustrate the theory, practice, and outcome of Bowen’s Family Systems Theory. Murray Bowen is a founder of the family systems theory and one of the pioneers in family therapy. Bowen defined the term “differentiation of self” as a capacity to gain a balance between emotional and intellectual functioning without fusion. Bowen established this term in light of the family system theory and he believed self-differentiation is closely related to an individual’s family life. With this term, Bowen addressed emotional maturity and maintaining independent thinking during emotional relationships. Bowen Theory has greatly influenced the world of family therapy and also studies demonstrated its effectiveness on individual therapy work. This article involves emphasizing the formulation of Bowen theory and application to a case example of an individual who struggles with differentiation. First, this paper will review the development of Bowen’s theory, then, it will illustrate Bowen’s eight interlocking terms. Finally, this paper will present a clinical example, applying family systems therapy to an individual who struggles with differentiation and discusses the outcomes.

Keywords

• family systems theory
• differentiation of self
• case study
• family therapy