Identifying the basic components in the formation of self-differentiation: A qualitative study

Self-differentiation is a contextual phenomenon and dependent on social conditions that is formed and experienced in a dynamic process under the influence of various conditions. Considering this issue, the question was raised, what are the basic components in the formation of self-differentiation? For this purpose, the qualitative approach, the systematic design of grounded theory at the level of conceptual ordering has been used. Through theoretical sampling and according to theoretical saturation, 17 people were interviewed. Data analysis was done using the first stage of theoratical coding method. After data analysis, 112 primary codes were identified, then 28 subcategories and 3 categories were formed. The findings show that self-differentiation emerges and flows in the form of independent thoughts, behaviors and attitudes along with identity seeking and social dignity. As a result, in the formation of self-differentiation, the basic components are mainly experienced as intellectual independence, but identity seeking and social dignity are another part of these components that are experienced. The findings of this study, guidance for future researches and provided a deeper understanding of this psychological characteristic in the cultural context, which can also have practical consequences in family therapy with regard to multicultural issues.