Which of the following actions is a sign of unhealthy personal boundaries in the context of developmental psychology?

• A. Allowing others to make all decisions for you without expressing your own preferences
• B. Setting limits on how much time you spend with others to maintain self-care
• C. Communicating your needs and feelings assertively
• D. Respecting others' privacy and expecting the same in return

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of personal boundaries in developmental psychology, which refers to the limits and rules we set for ourselves in relationships to protect our well-being and autonomy.
2. Identify that healthy personal boundaries involve expressing your own preferences, setting limits, and communicating assertively, which help maintain a balanced and respectful relationship with others.
3. Recognize that unhealthy personal boundaries occur when you allow others to control your decisions without expressing your own needs or preferences, leading to a loss of autonomy and potential emotional harm.
4. Evaluate each option by comparing it to the characteristics of healthy versus unhealthy boundaries: setting limits, assertive communication, and mutual respect are healthy signs, while complete passivity in decision-making is unhealthy.
5. Conclude that the action 'Allowing others to make all decisions for you without expressing your own preferences' is a sign of unhealthy personal boundaries because it reflects a lack of self-assertion and autonomy.