What Is Family Estrangement, Really?
Briefly

The article explores the complex nature of estrangement, indicating it is not simply about no contact or dramatic breakups. It exists on a nuanced spectrum where emotional detachment can be more relevant than physical absence. Estrangement can be unintentionally one-sided, with one party unaware that a relationship has shifted. Five key dimensions define estrangement: the relationship's perception, the formality of decisions made, and whether the estrangement is temporary or permanent. Ultimately, understanding estrangement revolves around recognizing personal intentions and cultural perceptions, illustrating that it is not always a straightforward experience.
Estrangement isn't always about no contact or big blowups; it's a nuanced spectrum ranging from emotional distance to temporary withdrawal, shaped by various personal factors.
Estrangement can manifest in many forms, including an unspoken withdrawal where one party may not even notice the distance until it’s far too late, complicating its definition.
Key dimensions of estrangement include perception, formality, and duration, with emotional distance often proving more significant than physical separation in understanding these complex relationships.
Understanding estrangement requires acknowledging the subjective intentions and interpretations of both individuals involved, illustrating that estrangement can often be a one-sided perception.
Read at Psychology Today
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