Individuation in Family Relationships

Abstract

A relational perspective on adolescence is presented as a model for understanding the origins of psychosocial competence. Changing qualities of the parent-child relationship during adolescence which involve increased symmetry of influence are examined, and individual differences in adolescents’ identity formation and role taking skill are linked to differences in their experience in the family. A model of individuation, which involves qualities of individuality and connectedness in relationships, is presented and used to account for individual differences in adolescent development. Findings from other studies of individuation and of family socialization are cited in support of the view of the origins of psychosocial competence in family experience.