According to Bowen's family systems theory, what characterizes individuals with good differentiation of self?

Individuals with good differentiation of self possess the ability to balance their emotional and intellectual functioning, allowing them to make independent decisions based on their personal principles. This means they can separate their own thoughts and feelings from those of others, leading to a strong sense of self. They are not overly reliant on the opinions of family or external authority figures when making choices. Instead, they use their personal values and beliefs as guiding factors, which contributes to healthier relationships and a clearer understanding of their own identity.

This differentiation is crucial for developing autonomy while maintaining connections with others, which is why individuals with high differentiation are typically more adept at forging and sustaining healthy relationships. They manage to assert their own needs and opinions without feeling the need to conform excessively or rebel against external influences.