PURPOSE
To examine the levels and associations of differentiation of self based on Bowen's theory and adult attachment in a sample with anxiety‐related disorders.
DESIGN AND METHODS
One hundred fourteen adults with anxiety‐related disorders and 117 age‐ and gender‐matched controls were recruited. Levels of differentiation of self, adult attachment, and trait and state anxiety were assessed.
FINDINGS
Adults with anxiety‐related disorders showed significantly lower global levels of differentiation of self after controlling for socio‐demographic characteristics. Adults with anxiety‐related disorders also displayed significantly higher levels of anxiety and avoidant attachment.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS
These constructs may be appropriate targets for intervention research in the study of anxiety‐related disorders.