Individuation: From Fusion to Dialogue

1 March 1976

journal article
Published by Wiley in Family Process

Vol. 15 (1) , 65-82
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1545-5300.1976.00065.x

Abstract

Growing interest in concepts of fusion and individuation within a number of different theoretical systems of psychotherapy suggests an emerging shift in perspective in the conceptualization of psychopathology and psychotherapy. This shift may represent a first step in the integration of individual and relational dynamic theories. A theoretical framework for the exploration of processes of fusion and individuation is presented, with suggested applications for the study of problems experienced by adult couples. The process of individuation from fusion to dialogue is outlined in the description of four modes of relationship. In this context, the paper suggests ways in which a variety of problematic relational patterns seen in couples may be viewed as reflecting the partners' struggles to move from fusion to dialogue.

Keywords

This publication has 3 references indexed in Scilit:

Families and Family Therapy
Published by Harvard University Press ,1974
The schizoid problem, regression, and the struggle to preserve an ego
Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice, 1961
The William Alanson White Memorial Lectures, Fourth Series
Psychiatry: Interpersonal & Biological Processes, 1957