Which boundary disturbance is characterized by an absence of clear boundaries between self and others?

The correct answer is confluence, which refers to a boundary disturbance marked by a lack of distinct lines between the self and others. In this context, confluence occurs when a person does not have a clear sense of their own identity, feelings, or thoughts, often merging with the emotions or needs of others. This can lead to difficulties in maintaining autonomy and can result in feelings of confusion or loss of self.

Individuals experiencing confluence might have trouble asserting themselves or recognizing when they are being influenced by the beliefs or emotions of others. They may find it challenging to differentiate their thoughts and feelings from those of the people around them, leading to enmeshment in relationships.

In contrast, the other concepts relate to boundary disturbances in different ways. For instance, projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable feelings or thoughts onto someone else, while retroflection is the act of directing one's feelings back onto oneself instead of expressing them outwardly. Introjection, on the other hand, refers to the process of internalizing others' beliefs or attitudes, often leading to a distorted sense of self. Each of these disturbances involves different mechanisms of managing boundaries but does not specifically signify the lack of distinct boundaries that confluence represents.