Enmeshment in the context of family therapy indicates what?

Enmeshment refers to a specific relational dynamic within families where the boundaries between family members become blurred due to excessive emotional involvement. In this context, family members may become overly intertwined in each other's lives, leading to a lack of personal autonomy and individuality. This increased involvement can manifest as one person’s feelings, thoughts, or actions being heavily influenced by others, often resulting in difficulties in establishing personal boundaries.

Recognizing enmeshment is crucial in family therapy, as it can create dysfunction and hinder healthy relationships. Therapists aim to help families identify these patterns and foster healthier interactions by promoting clearer boundaries and encouraging family members to develop their own identities without excessive dependence on one another. This understanding of enmeshment is vital for counselors working with families who may struggle with issues related to dependency and identity.