Dr. Schenthal practiced psychiatry for many years but lost his medical license after violating boundaries with a patient. He is the founder of PBI Education which now helps thousands of clinicians and medical doctors with boundaries courses. In his book, The Clinician’s Guide to Professional Boundaries, Dr. Stephen Schenthal discusses the four laws of professional boundaries.
1. Everyone Has a Violation Potential Which is Constantly Changing
Every professional has the potential to violate boundaries, and this potential is not fixed. It can change depending on factors such as emotional state, stress, workload, or personal circumstances. Being aware of one’s own vulnerability is crucial in maintaining professional boundaries and avoiding ethical violations.
2. Perception is 9/10 of the Law
This law underscores the importance of how actions are perceived by others, particularly clients or patients. Even if a professional believes they are maintaining boundaries, how the other person perceives the interaction is critical. Perception, especially from the client or patient’s viewpoint, can define whether a boundary has been crossed. Professionals must be sensitive to how their words, actions, and behaviors may be interpreted and ensure they are always seen as maintaining a clear and appropriate boundary.
3. Protect Yourself at All Times
When you consider the time, energy and finances required to earn your license as well as the income, reputation and satisfaction you generate in your profession It’s important to protect what you have worked so hard to achieve. The loss of your license can destroy so much: your income, your reputation, your community.
4. The Board Decides What’s Right, Not You
This law highlights the fact that professionals are accountable to their licensing board or governing body. Even if a professional believes their actions were appropriate, the final judgment on whether a boundary violation has occurred lies with the board. The board applies established ethical and professional standards to assess whether a boundary has been crossed. Professionals must understand that their actions will ultimately be evaluated by external authorities, not just by their personal beliefs or intentions.
These laws underscore the need for constant self-awareness, the importance of perception, proactive protection, and the reality that professional conduct is evaluated by external standards, not personal judgment.