What Weak Boundaries Look Like
A case study of almost non-existent personal boundaries.
In 2020, Ashley found herself in the thick of an extremely popular conspiracy theory. Listen to her tell her story in the video below.
Ashley is a courageous woman who shared her story so that others who fell into the same rabbit hole might also find their way out. I feature her here with full respect and compassion, as someone who has not had the opportunity or guidance to develop the boundary strength that would offer her full autonomy and safety. She struggled like many of us have with something that is neither our fault nor a character defect.
In the video below she states:
“I just went down this rabbit hole learning all this stuff. What have we heard the last four years — “don’t watch the news — fake news, fake news!” I don’t watch the news. I don’t read newspapers. I don’t do anything. I’ve always been someone that you just tell me what to do and I do it.”
“I grew up being told we were Republicans, so I’ve always been that straight red ticket.”
The statements above in bold type are the examples of her habit of not thinking for herself but simply doing what others told her to do or think.
Ashley shares a final example of how easily she could be influenced:
“I was the biggest supporter there was. If he were to have said something and if he were to have said Q is illegitimate, nothing’s real in there, I think some people would leave. If he would have said that’s not real, I’m not coming back, it is over, I’d have believed him.”
Please note: Ashley’s story is about conspiracy theories with a political aspect. This piece does not promote or oppose any political views. It’s presented as an example of someone who had little protection against strong influences.
Ashley no longer believes the false theories that she got caught up in. She stated that she now feels foolish for what she believed, but I’m sure many are grateful to her for sharing about how she was bamboozled.
Are You Easily Bamboozled?
If not by conspiracy theories, by other things? Is it difficult for you to not be influenced by others? Do you tend to do what you are told? Do you find yourself in situations or with people who may not be safe?
Guidance is Available
Many of us struggle with emotional and intellectual boundaries.
You can start by reading these articles on Boundaries —
It is my hope that you find them helpful.
For specific help getting out — the QAnonAnonymous Podcast might be helpful (this is a resource I found but I don’t know much about them, therefore this is not an endorsement) — Listen to the introduction:
Christine Green offers coaching to individuals who wish to strengthen their personal boundaries.
