ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors explore five key aspects of family therapy based on Bowen theory and then consider how to integrate principles of socioculturally attuned therapy with guidelines for practice and a case example. They view the following components of Bowen family therapy as central to increased differentiation and relationship functioning: differentiation of self, transgenerational patterns and transmission, flow of anxiety, maintaining emotional engagement, and therapist’s family of origin work. Therapists applying Bowen theory must work from a differentiated sense of self. This enables them to avoid emotional fusion with clients’ anxiety. The authors examine differentiation in societal context, why power processes are important, and how awareness of one’s sociopolitical, cultural, and historical contexts can be the foundation for empowerment and third order change. Assessment of differentiation may reflect dominant culture values and miss the merit and usefulness of togetherness, feeling based knowledge, or a focus on other.
