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Correlational Study

| Published: September 28, 2026

Explore The Relationship Between Birth Order and Level of Differentiation of Self

Ruchika Jain

Counselling Psychologist, M.S, Graduate, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Northern Illinois University Google Scholar More about the auther

, Scott Sibley

Associate Professor, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Northern Illinois University Google Scholar More about the auther

DIP: 18.01.253.20261403

DOI: 10.25215/1403.253

ABSTRACT

Family systems theory plays a primary role in the clinical development of family therapy. This study was conducted to explore the relationship between the variables, level of differentiation of self, and birth order. The researcher wanted to understand and explore the applicability of family systems theory in collectivistic cultures like India. Data from 136 participants from India, aged 18-29 was collected. DSI(R), a self-reporting questionnaire was filled up by the participants along with their demographic details and birth order. The results inferred that there was no significant relationship between the studied variables, indicating there are other confounding variables to be considered. The limitations of restricted time, unequal representation of gender, and birth order concluded that this study cannot be generalized to the overall population. However, this is one of the first studies conducted in India with the variable of differentiation of self, which can be considered for future research with multiple other variables.

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Ruchika Jain @ ruchikaj111@gmail.com

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Article Overview

ISSN 2348-5396

ISSN 2349-3429

18.01.253.20261403

10.25215/1403.253

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Published in   Volume 14, Issue 3, July-September, 2026