Integrating Minuchin's Boundary Continuum And Bowen's Differentiation Scale: A Curvilinear Representation

Authors: Johnson P.¹; Waldo M.²

Source: Contemporary Family Therapy, Volume 20, Number 3, September 1998 , pp. 403-413(11)

Publisher: Springer

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $47.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

The purpose of this article is to discuss an integration of Minuchin's boundary continuum and Bowen's differentiation scale. Minuchin's boundary continuum provides a framework for understanding proximity and distance within relationships. It graphically depicts health in relationships as being a dynamic middle ground between the extremes of enmeshment and disengagement. Bowen's differentiation scale illustrates differences in emotional health, such as the ability to distinguish between thoughts and feelings, associated with varying levels of differentiation. A curvilinear integration of Minuchin's continuum and Bowen's scale retains the advantages of each and also expands their understanding.

Keywords: Bowen; Minuchin; boundary continuum; differentiation scale

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Assistant professor at the Department of Health and Human Development at Montana State University 2: Department head at the Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology, New Mexico State University

Publication date: 1998-09-01