When Someone Ignores Your Boundary

Here’s the hard truth: the moment you set a boundary, someone will test it.

When that happens, it’s tempting to over-explain. But as therapist Dr. Alexandra Solomon says, “A boundary isn’t a negotiation; it’s information.”
If someone repeatedly ignores your “no,” that’s not confusion — it’s data.

Frontiers in Psychology (2022) research on interpersonal coercion shows boundary violators often rely on subtle emotional pressure — guilt, minimization, or “just joking.” Your best defense is consistency: calm, clear repetition.

Example lines:

• “I’ve already answered, and that hasn’t changed.”

• “If you keep pushing, I’ll need to step away from this.”

Consistency teaches others that your words mean something. And it teaches you that you can rely on yourself.

GRL Takeaway: Protect your peace like you’d protect your password.
Try this: Notice one person who regularly tests your limits. Practice one short, calm line — then breathe instead of defending.