The Individual's and the Couple's Perspective

This chapter explores strategies for managing the boundaries around work and nonwork roles from the individual’s and the couple’s perspective. Emphasizing the growing importance of effective boundary management, the chapter draws on boundary theory and work/family border theory to analyze two opposing approaches: role segmentation and role integration. It discusses the benefits and drawbacks of each approach and explains how boundary preferences, boundary work tactics, and external boundary supplies shape enacted role boundaries. By introducing the concept of boundary fit, the chapter presents a framework for understanding effective boundary management. Building on this framework and acknowledging the collaborative nature of boundary management, the chapter provides actionable strategies for individuals and couples. These strategies include assessing boundary preferences, deploying boundary work tactics, and cultivating collaborative strategies based on open communication. By integrating theoretical insights with practical recommendations, the chapter aims to equip readers with the tools to understand, develop, and refine their boundary management and improve the work–nonwork interface.