Personal Boundaries

Personal Boundaries

What are Personal Boundaries? 

• The limits and rules we set for ourselves within relationships 
• A line that marks the limits of an area; a dividing line between us and another person, place or thing. 

What are different types of boundaries? 

• Rigid: this type of boundary may be a person who avoids intimacy and close relationships. Has difficulty being able to ask for help. This person can be very protective of information and may seem detached, as well as may keep others at a distance to avoid the possibility of rejection. Has no or minimal flexibility. 
• Porous: this type of boundary may be a person who has difficulty saying “no” to the requests of others, as well may be over-involved with other people’s problems. This person may overshare personal information, as well may depend on the opinions of others. This type of boundary can be stemmed from fear of rejection if they do not comply with others. 
• Healthy: When implementing this boundary, a person will value their own opinions. This person doesn’t compromise their values. When implementing this boundary, a person may share personal information in an appropriate way (specifically, does not over or under share). Is aware of personal wants and needs, as well has the ability to communicate them, as well is able to be accepting when others say “no” to them. 

Considerations: the appropriateness of boundaries can depend on setting. For example: what is appropriate to say when you’re out with friends might not be appropriate in a professional setting. It may be important to consider cultural impacts. Cultures may have different expectations when it comes to boundaries as well. 

Most people can have a mix of different boundary types depending on the specific type of relationship (example: friend, family member, colleague, boss, etc.). 

Some other types of boundaries may include: 

• Physical Boundaries - refers to personal space and physical touch. 
• Intellectual Boundaries - refers to thoughts and ideas. This boundary is crossed when someone dismisses or belittles someone else’s thoughts, values, opinions. 
• Emotional Boundaries - refers to a person’s feelings. 
• Sexual Boundaries - refers to emotions, intellectual, and physical aspects of sexuality. When we are aware and have a mutual understanding and respect towards limitations. 
• Material Boundaries - refers to money and possessions.
• Time Boundaries - refers to how a person uses their time and respects other people's time.

If you notice having difficulty with setting personal boundaries or wanting to learn more about your own personal boundaries, then we encourage you to contact Lexington Counseling and Psychiatry-The Offices of Paul Dalton to get scheduled with one of our providers. Call us today at 859.338.0466 or contact us today at CounselingLexingtonKY.com

 At Lexington Counseling and Psychiatry, we have been trusted mental health professionals in Central Kentucky for over 21 years!