Between Two Homes Boundaries Course Overview

Overview of the Course

  • This course is titled "Between Two Homes boundaries course" and aims to assist adults in learning and establishing healthy boundaries.
  • Developed by mental health professionals:
    • Bradley S. Craig, LMSW, IPR, CFLE
    • Carol Henry, MA LPC LMF team
  • The content of this course is strictly educational and not intended to serve as therapy or legal advice.

Definition of Boundaries

  • Common Concepts of Boundaries:

    • Physical Boundaries: E.g., fences (concrete, wooden, metal, picket, cyclone).
    • Metaphorical Boundaries: Conceptually, boundaries refer to where one person begins and another ends, acting as filters.

  • Expert Definitions:

    • Anne Katherine in "Boundaries":
    • States that boundaries bring order to our lives.
    • As we strengthen boundaries, we develop a clearer sense of self and improve our relationships with others.
    • Boundaries empower individuals to determine how they will be treated by others.
    • Jane Bluestine in "Parents, Teens, and Boundaries: How to Draw the Line":
    • Defined boundaries as indicators of limits, self-identity, comfort zones, and willingness to accept responsibilities.
    • Explains that boundaries address personal needs in a situation while accommodating others’ needs.
    • Emphasizes that boundaries can prevent conflict and create win-win power structures, promoting both self-care and consideration for a child’s or student’s needs.
    • PM Melody in "Facing Codependence":
    • Highlights that boundary systems offer us ways to express who we are.
    • Describes boundary systems as having two parts:
      • Internal Boundaries: How we perceive and set limits within ourselves.
      • External Boundaries: How we communicate and enforce those limits with others.
    • Charles Whitfield, MD, in "Boundaries and Relationships":
    • Defines a boundary or limit as the extent to which one can comfortably engage in a relationship.

Importance of Boundaries

  • Boundaries are essential for:
    • Defining who we are and our comfort levels in interactions.
    • Facilitating healthy relationships by setting clear expectations and limits.
    • Promoting self-care while allowing us to consider the needs of others (e.g., children, students).
    • Preventing conflict and building constructive power dynamics within relationships.

Course Structure

  • The components of this course will guide participants through understanding, developing, and applying personal boundaries in various contexts.
  • Recommendations for practical application of learned concepts will be provided throughout the course.