Boundary setting

Boundaries differ from person to person and are mediated by variations in culture, personality, and social context. Setting boundaries defines our expectations of ourselves and others in different kinds of relationships.

How do you practise boundary setting?

Setting boundaries could look like: 

• Physical contact: Not feeling comfortable hugging a person you’ve just met
• Verbal interactions: Not wanting a friend or family member to speak down to you
• Personal space: Choosing to not have others in your home when you aren’t there

Why is boundary setting important?

Setting healthy boundaries is crucial for self-care and cultivating positive relationships. When both parties in a relationship feel heard, supported and respected, this is likely because healthy boundaries have been set. 

As boundaries establish clear rules as to what is ok and not ok behaviour in a particular relationship, they let individuals feel safe and secure knowing their emotional, physical and psychological needs are heard and met.  

Helping you with boundary setting

How to set boundaries

Different types of boundaries