What might indicate unresolved family attachments according to Bowen's theory?

Bowen's theory, particularly in the context of family systems, highlights the impact of family dynamics on individual behavior and emotional functioning. Unresolved family attachments often manifest as an individual's inability to separate or differentiate emotionally from their family of origin.

The presence of childlike regression in adult behavior around parents is a clear indicator of unresolved attachments. This regression suggests that, in the presence of parents, the individual reverts to earlier, less mature behaviors, reflecting a dependency or unresolved issues from childhood. Such behavior can include seeking approval, emotional reactivity, or a lack of autonomy, which demonstrate that the individual's sense of self is still heavily influenced by familial ties.

In contrast, healthy adult relationships, open communication, and independent decision-making are signs of well-developed, autonomous identities. These characteristics indicate that individuals have resolved their attachments and are functioning as independent adults capable of forming meaningful relationships outside their family system.