Clinical Conference

April 16, 2010
Distinguishing Between Functional and Basic Level of Differentiation

Michael E. Kerr, MD

An increase in basic level of differentiation is not the outcome of sustained efforts to increase one's functional level of differentiation. Various strategies for calming oneself and being less reactive emotionally can help people increase their functional level of differentiation, even to the point of reducing significant clinical symptoms. Increasing basic level of differentiation depends on acquiring new knowledge about relationship processes. It is impossible to be more of a "self" without observing the relationship processes that work against it. Bowen theory is a lens for helping people become better observers of their important relationships. The clinical interviews in this conference will illustrate people's efforts to be better observers and, more importantly, to find the courage to act on those observations.

When: 9:30-3:30
Where: Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church
3401 Nebraska Avenue NW, Washington, DC (see link above for directions)