At a Glance
Individuation is all about becoming a unique individual with a sense of self.
What Is Individuation?
Carl Jung used the term “individuation” extensively in his work on personality development.
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In Carl Jung’s work, he suggested that this was a self-realization process.
Throughout life, people are prone to losing touch with certain aspects of their true selves.
They may no longer be as open about what happens during the school day or in their friendships.
They also may have romantic relationships or crushes that they keep to themselves.
Focusing on the Self
They may focus on themselves more than others.
Adolescent egocentrism may arise due to the individuation process.
Teenagers are often focused on their own concerns and may struggle to see things from the perspective of others.
Going Against Norms
People may rebel against the family or cultural norms.
The child may reject conservatism to embrace liberal politics.
Changing Appearance and Style
They may personalize their appearance.
Parents should not take these style decisions personally.
In adulthood, people may go through periods of changing how they present themselves to the world.
Suppressing or denying the authentic self can, however, lead to distress and problems with self-identity.
Poor individuation can lead to a number of problems.
Individuation is important not only in the development of a healthy identity but also in the development ofhealthy relationships.
If people are not sure what they want, they may seek relationships that lack appropriate boundaries and support.
It’s important that parents or caregivers allow children to undergo the individuation process.
In some cases, our sense of self may adjust in response to these changes.
Adolescents are known to take risks as they develop into independent people.
If your child shows signs of experimenting with drugs or alcohol, don’t chalk it up to individuation.
It may be time to intervene.
Set Boundaries
Set boundaries for kids, even as they undergo the individuation process.
That doesn’t mean that the process ends once a person reaches adulthood, however.
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