A Typology of Mother-Daughter Relationship Patterns for Young Adult Women and Their Mothers

Abstract

Qualitative and quantitative methods were used in this study of developmental themes in the context of the mother-daughter relationship. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 60 women, aged 23–42 years. A rating guide for individuation was developed for content analysis of interview material. The dimensions of the rating guide included (1) psychological autonomy from family of origin, (2) empathy, (3) tolerance of ambiguity, and (4) maintenance of self-esteem. Cluster analysis was employed to assign women with similar individuation profiles into five groups. A typology was constructed that represents styles of mother—daughter interaction. The study findings suggest that typological differences based on individuation themes can be used to describe overall patterns of the mother-daughter relationship over time. These patterns provide a useful context in which to study mother-daughter interactions through the life span.