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Deconstructing Differentiation: Self Regulation, Interdependent Relating, and Well-Being in Adulthood

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Abstract

This study examined underlying similarities between the Personal Authority in the Family System Questionnaire (PAFS; Bray, Williamson, & Malone, 1984a) and the Differentiation of Self Inventory (DSI; Skowron & Friedlander, 1998). Generalized least-squares factor analysis yielded two related factors, Self Regulation and Interdependent Relating, accounting for 60% of the variance in the solution. Greater Self Regulation—comprised of DSI scales characterized by less emotional reactivity and the ability to take an I position in relationships—and Interdependent Relating—marked by greater personal authority, intergenerational intimacy and less intergenerational fusion on the PAFS and less emotional cutoff on the DSI—predicted well-being among both women and men. Implications for family therapy and suggestions for future research are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Counseling Psychology program, Penn State University, 327 Cedar Building, University Park, PA, 16802-3110, USA

    Elizabeth A. Skowron

  2. National Institute on Aging, Gerontology Research Center, 5600 Nathan Shock Dr., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA

    Sarah E. Holmes

  3. School of Family Studies, University of Connecticut, U-117, 843 Bolton Rd., Storrs, CT, 06268, USA

    Ronald M. Sabatelli

Authors
  1. Elizabeth A. Skowron
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  2. Sarah E. Holmes
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  3. Ronald M. Sabatelli
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Skowron, E.A., Holmes, S.E. & Sabatelli, R.M. Deconstructing Differentiation: Self Regulation, Interdependent Relating, and Well-Being in Adulthood. Contemporary Family Therapy 25, 111–129 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022514306491

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