Two Levels of Self Differentiation

In this podcast episode, Dr. Michael Kerr discusses two levels of self differentiation: functional and basic. Functional differentiation refers to a change in functioning, such as someone who decides to stop drinking heavily. While this type of change helps us to function more effectively, it does not address the underlying anxieties. On the other hand, basic differentiation is seen as progress, as it involves dealing with the underlying anxieties and becoming more resilient. This level of differentiation allows us to better manage challenges and triggers for symptomatic behavior, and it is achieved through doing our own family of origin work and taking non-anxious stands with those who make us anxious.