INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — As families come together for the holidays, it can be an important time to set boundaries with relatives who may not be around all the time, such as grandparents.
Dr. Danielle Henderson is a clinical psychologist from IU Health, who joined News 8 Saturday to discuss navigating these boundaries and knowing when to set them.
Parents can always benefit from a strong support system, but Henderson says sometimes, the “support” may cross over into being “too much.”
Henderson says some key giveaways on when its time to set boundaries include:
The family member gives unsolicited advice.
They come over unannounced.
They interfere with you or your family’s regular routine.
Henderson says that sometimes, grandparents may overstep if they feel they aren’t spending as much time with their grandchildren.
Furthermore, Henderson says when setting boundaries, it is important to share your feelings and be kind, but direct – and remember to acknowledge the other person’s feelings, as well.
To here more, watch the interview above.