The 3 Components of Healthy Relationships include open communication, mutual respect, and boundaries.
Boundaries are all about personal comfort levels - they are where we draw the line between what is and is not okay with us. Boundaries serve as a guideline for our relationships with other people in order to make sure that everyone feels respected. Boundaries apply to any kind of relationship we have - whether with a friend, family member, partner, co-worker, or anyone else in our lives.
What are some examples of boundaries?
Even though we talk about them in relation to other people, in some ways boundaries are really about your relationship with yourself; they help you honor your needs, goals, feelings and values. Boundaries can be emotional, physical, or even digital.
Emotional boundaries
Some examples of emotional boundaries include:
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Saying no - for example:
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"I actually don't feel comfortable doing what you're asking."
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Asking for space - for example:
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"I'm sorry, I need some time to myself today but maybe we can hang out tomorrow."
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Emotional wellbeing - for example:
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"I am so sorry you are having such a tough time. Right now, I am not in a place to take in all of this information. Do you think we can talk about it later?"
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Physical boundaries
Some examples of physical boundaries include:
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Body language - for example:
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"I don't like hugging, but I can shake your hand."
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"No. I don't want you to touch me like that."
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Physical space - for example:
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"I like doing homework together but I can focus better when we're in different rooms."
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"Please do not go into my room without asking first."
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Wellbeing - for example:
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"I need to eat. I am going to go grab something."
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"I am really tired. I need to sit down now."
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Digital boundaries
Some examples of digital boundaries include:
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Right to privacy - for example:
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"I don't mind if you follow me on social media, but I don't feel comfortable sharing my passwords with you."
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"I don't feel comfortable with sharing my phone number."
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What to do when boundaries aren't respected?
The best thing we can do when our boundaries aren't respected is to 1. make sure we are safe, and 2. practice open communication!
To read more about healthy relationships click here.
More resources :
Love Is Respect is an organization that offers 24/7 support to teens and young adults with questions or concerns about dating and relationships.
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Call 1-866-33-1-9474
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Text 'LOVEIS' to 22522
National Domestic Violence Hotline offers 24/7 to survivors of abuse .
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Call 1-800-799-7233