Cultural Context Matters: Setting Boundaries Without Losing Your Community

In this episode, I respond to a social media post about how North American therapists often push boundary-setting without understanding the cultural consequences for children of immigrants and those from collectivist cultures. While setting boundaries is crucial for healthy relationships, the Western approach of individualism doesn't always translate to cultures where family connection and community are central to survival and identity. I break down the critical difference between setting boundaries and estrangement, offering practical examples of how you can protect your mental health and get your needs met without completely cutting off your family or losing your entire support system. From getting a hotel during the holidays to setting time limits on phone calls, I share flexible boundary strategies that honor both your wellbeing and your cultural values. This episode is essential listening for anyone navigating the tension between therapeutic advice and cultural expectations, and for therapists who want to provide more culturally competent care.

With this episode you'll be able to:

• Understand the difference between individualistic and collectivist cultures and how this impacts boundary-setting approaches
• Recognize that boundaries exist on a spectrum, from small limits to estrangement, and you don't have to jump to the extreme
• Learn practical boundary examples that keep you safe while maintaining family connections (hotel stays during visits, time limits on calls, etc.)
• Reframe boundaries as "what needs to be in place for me to say yes" rather than walls that keep people out
• Discover the importance of working with culturally competent therapists who understand your specific cultural context
• See how you can create healthier patterns for the next generation even if you can't change your current family dynamics

Don't forget you can submit your questions about mother-daughter relationships for me to answer in upcoming episodes!

Connect with Brittney:

• Instagram: @theBrittneyScott
• Website: www.brittneymscott.com
• Consultation to work with Brittney
• Free Resources

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Keyword tags:

Boundaries, cultural competency, immigrant families, collectivist culture, individualistic culture, estrangement alternatives, healthy boundaries, mother-daughter boundaries, cultural context in therapy, setting limits, family dynamics, generational healing, culturally sensitive therapy, boundary spectrum, holiday boundaries