ABSTRACT
Boundaries are the containers of the energy that gives every system life. Boundaries determine system survival and development and also are the parameters that determine the limitations of system transformation. The permeability of its boundaries determines how energy can be used in the group. Every boundary is a threshold between the known and the unknown, a feature that requires group members to make new discriminations or new integrations. Each boundary crossing is a small system transformation. There is always turbulence at the boundary. Part of the Systems-Centered Therapy (SCT) leader's job is to clarify the boundaries that exist in space and time. When boundaries are clear, SCT members can locate themselves in both real and psychological space and time. Boundary permeability functions to control information input and output across boundaries. Permeability of boundaries between an SCT group's subsystems determines what can be openly talked about and what has to be talked about covertly, indirectly, or not at all.
