Which approach focuses on separation and individuation issues to improve interpersonal relations?

The chosen approach that focuses on separation and individuation issues to enhance interpersonal relations is rooted in object relations theory. This theory emphasizes how early relationships, especially with primary caregivers, shape an individual's ability to relate to others later in life. Central to object relations is the idea that a person's psyche is formed through the internalization of experiences with significant figures, leading to the development of mental representations or "objects."

Separation and individuation are crucial processes during childhood where an individual learns to differentiate themselves from their primary caregiver, which significantly impacts their ability to form healthy interpersonal relationships. Difficulties in these areas can lead to various relational issues in adulthood. Object relations theorists assert that an individual's capacity for healthy relationships hinges on their early experiences and how well they navigated these separation-individuation processes.

Other approaches, such as self psychology, drive theory, and ego psychology, also contribute to understanding the psyche but do not focus as directly on separation and individuation issues in the context of interpersonal relations as object relations theory does. Self psychology focuses more on the development of self-esteem and maintaining a cohesive self, while drive theory centers around internal drives and instincts. Ego psychology emphasizes the function of the ego in mediating between the id, the superego, and reality