Differentiation of self and marital adjustment within the Asian Indian American population

Abstract

This study was designed to examine the universality of Murray Bowen's theory of differentiation of self. Bowen believed that the level of differentiation a person achieves in their family of origin plays a crucial role in the types of adult relationships they form. He also believed that this theory of differentiation cut across, race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic barriers. To test this claim, a sample population of Asian Indian Americans was tested. The sample population, consisting of 13 participants, was based in a small midwestern town. Due to the small sample size statistically significant results were not able to be generated, although impressionistic observations and conclusions were.