In terms of Structural Mapping, what do dashed lines indicate?

In Structural Mapping, dashed lines are used to represent diffuse boundaries within a family system. Diffuse boundaries indicate a lack of clarity and can suggest that individuals may have difficulty distinguishing between their own needs and those of others. This often happens in relationships where personal autonomy is compromised due to over-involvement or enmeshment, resulting in a lack of individual identity.

Dashed lines serve as a visual representation of these porous boundaries, highlighting situations where emotional connectivity is overly present, which can lead to difficulties in familial functioning. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for therapists as they help clients navigate and establish healthier boundaries.