Oscar is an 18 year old living with his enmeshed family. They inhibit his attempts at individuation and pressure him to stay fused with them. Over time, Oscar developed a substance abuse problem. When he is using, he feels as though he is rebelling against his family and expressing individuality and difference from them. At the same time, his problem keeps him from successfully developing autonomy from the family. This is an example of:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oscar's substance abuse as a form of rebellion against his family's enmeshment, while simultaneously preventing true autonomy, exemplifies pseudo-individuation. This term describes a superficial form of gaining individuality that doesn't achieve genuine independence or self-differentiation.

Oscar Is an 18 Year Old Living with His Enmeshed