The Differentiation of Self Inventory: Development and initial validation.

Abstract

Despite the importance of Bowen theory (M.Bowen, 1976,1978; M. E. KerrB Nichols & Schwartz, 1998). Indeed, Bowen theory provides a foundation for the field of family therapy that renders i t distinct from the multitude of theoretica l approaches to individual psychotherapy. At present, many of Bowen's (1976, 1978) concepts (e.g., differentiation of self, interlocking triangles , o r reactiv e emotiona l distancing ) pervade th e famil y system s literature . Despit e th e vas t attention Bowen theory has received from clinicians and theorists alike, there have been, to date, few programmatic attempts t o tes t it s validit y wit h respec t t o personalit y functioning or quality of interpersonal relations or to changes as a result of psychotherapy. To begin filling this notable gap, we developed the Differentiation o f Self Inventory, a self-report instrument for adults (ages 25+). In this article, we present psychometric support for the measure, validation studies to date, and implications for theory, research, and practice.