Marital and Relationship Problems Among Chemically Dependent and Codependent Relationships

Boundary inadequacy has been defined as a pattern of ambiguous, overly rigid, or invasive boundaries related to physical or psychological space. These patterns have been found to be highly correlated with chemically dependent individuals and families. Invasive boundary inadequacy involves patterns of behavior wherein an imbalance of power is used to objectify people. An assessment of boundary inadequacy can be skillfully completed through an examination of psychological and physical boundaries in both the current living situation, and in the family of origin. Assessment of physical boundary issues focuses on what people learned about having both physical attachment and physical separation from others. Impressive evidence exists to suggest that many forms of boundary inadequacy have strong connections with sex role stereotyping. From the literature on sex roles, one knows that sex role stereotyping is learned very early in life, and that it has formidable consequences in adult behavior.