Differentiation of Self and Psychological Well-Being in a Sample of Italian and Korean Young Adults

Lampis, Jessica

;Dessi', Cinzia;Succa, Annalisa

2026-01-01

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Abstract

Objectives: Bowen theory focused on the universality of the differentiation of selfprocesses, but it is important to recognize that the characteristics assigned to different levels of differentiation from family of origin, including what is considered to be healthy, could function differently across cultures. Method: The present research has as its main objective the analysis of the differences between a Mediterranean country (Italy) and an Asian Confucian-based collectivist country (South Korea) regarding the relationships between levels of differentiation and psychological well-being. A sample of 352 young adults recruited in Italy (n 5 186) and in Korea (n 5 166) completed measures assessing differentiation of self (DSI-R) and psychological distress (OQ-45.2). Results: Data revealed that higher levels of differentiation of self predicts lower levels of psychological distress among both Italian and Korean participants. However, the dimension of the fusion with others seems to play a protective role among Korean participants. Discussion: Results underscore and confirm the importance of considering the role of differentiation of self in clinical practice with emerging adult.