Principlev1
In relationships, you can remain fully present to another
In relationships, you can remain fully present to another person's emotional experience while maintaining your own emotional center by holding both realities as simultaneously valid rather than merging into one.
Why This Is a Principle
This derives from Bowen's differentiation concept (referenced as the theoretical foundation) and consciousness being intentional/directed (Consciousness is inherently intentional — it is always) - you can direct attention toward another's experience without losing your own. The principle prescribes differentiation as the mechanism for simultaneous connection and autonomy. Bowen's work provides the grounding.