How do you manage to create relationships with boundaries?

Question

Kevin Downey · Accepted Answer

"I learned strong boundary-setting techniques while earning my diplomas in counseling and leadership. I've continued developing my customized approach through my work and volunteer experience. As difficult as they are, I am skilled in conducting boundary-related conversations. I also have a 'story bank,' where I've memorized age-appropriate stories and memories that feel safe to share when working with youth. When I feel like sharing a personal account is appropriate, I draw from one of these stories. I'm often invited to birthday parties and family events of the clients I work with. In the rare cases where I deemed it appropriate to participate, I first consulted with my supervisor and the organization guidelines ahead of time, and also requested a chaperone."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

In your role as a Youth Worker, you may find yourself in difficult situations or entering conversations where boundaries are unclear. Your job is to make the youth feel comfortable with you while also being able to create common ground and maintain strong points of connection.

At times, creating these connection points may mean sharing personal examples from your life or your struggles as a youth. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you ensure professionalism and boundaries while still earning a personal connection.

Rachelle Enns · Answer

"Learning to set boundaries while working with at-risk youth is a necessity, even if when a good rapport is established. In my approach, I'm honest and direct, and adapt my communication to their personality, to what I know about them, accounting for their receptiveness to feedback. Only share what you are comfortable sharing. I don't share the names of my children, the school they go to, or where we live. I don't meet with clients outside of work unless it's work-related and pre-approved by a supervisor or guardian, and accompanied by another coworker. The last thing I want to do is cause complications that have the potential to harm me or the youth."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I listen and communicate. I let my thoughts and judgments to the side. I listen to what they have to say, what their experiences are, and pay attention to culture. I see the parent(s) as a second teacher(s); therefore, I communicate what their child is learning and their progression. I work to help the parents find ways to support their child's progress after they go home, introducing them to techniques and community resources they can utilize to make home a positive learning experience, too."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I create relationships with boundaries by making sure that I am punctual. This creates a time boundary, and I feel it is important to stick to these at the beginning and the end of sessions with young people. If you do go over time, I feel it is important to explain to the young person why this is the case. In terms of relationship building, it is important for me to be clear with myself about what I'm willing to share. I create my own boundaries in regard to discussion. It is important to share a certain amount of your personal life so that the young person is able to relate to you and feels confident sharing about themselves."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I make sure that I am honest and direct when it comes to my role and if boundaries have been crossed. I make sure the other person understands the boundaries and my role so as to avoid crossing them again in the future. For example, when I was running the first-year psychology tutorials, I ensured that each student understood my role and that even though I was a student, I was not allowed to help them with any assignments. I could advise them on different techniques and help explain concepts, but I could not proofread or draft any work for them. Most of all, I ensure that the other party understands my role. And if boundaries are crossed, I make sure to explain to the other party how they have been crossed, why it is important for them not to be crossed, and emphasize my role again."

How do you manage to create relationships with boundaries?

How to Answer: How do you manage to create relationships with boundaries?

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21. How do you manage to create relationships with boundaries?

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