The nurse therapist assessing a family system perceives the family to be poorly differentiated and ...

B
Differentiation refers to the ability of the individual to establish a unique identity and still remain emotionally connected to the family of origin. Part of this process involves determining for oneself what one wishes to believe and value, rather than simply maintaining the values and beliefs of the other family members. Assigning fault for a family's dysfunction is rarely therapeutic (and rarely the fault of a single person). Adhering more strongly to the family's values would decrease differentiation, not increase it. Integrating effectively with social systems such as schools is desirable but is not pertinent to differentiation.