Author: Auris Huang Hung

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol. 25(3), Fall 2006, pp. 226-239

Abstract:

Modeling a multi-disciplinary evaluation of psychological concepts for use in cross-cultural settings, this paper presents a psychological, theological, and cultural analysis of the concept of differentiated oneness (and related concepts individuation, differentiation, and boundaries) to examine its theoretical foundations and applicability in counseling Asian American families. After evaluating some of the psychological research among non-Western populations and the theology underlying differentiated oneness, this paper explores how Western and Eastern cultural differences, at the core of which are differing views of self, make direct application of this Western-based psychological principle to Asian Americans problematic. Some implications for Christian counseling are presented.