Boundary Violations: Character& Contexts

Abstract

Likely the most well-known of its kind, Gabbard’s (1994) taxonomy of sexual transgressing therapeutic practitioners includes; the impulsive and exploitative Predatory Practitioner; the older, disillusioned Lovesick Practitioner; and the vulnerable, self-sacrificing Masochistic- Surrendering Practitioner. These categories were formulated through clinical observation, and the extent to which they reflect the actual occurrence of sexual boundary violations is unclear. This narrative review sought empirical studies which have reported findings relevant to Gabbard’s taxonomy. In addition, each category was considered from an original perspective, drawing from a broader range of philosophic and psychodynamic commentaries. Quantitative evidence was found to be generally consistent with Gabbard’s descriptions, although despite its widespread reference, no instance was found where an empirical study had used the taxonomy as a framework for hypothesis testing. This review concludes on the observed gulf between the qualitative and quantitative contributions to the topic of boundary violations and argues for new research attempting to unify them.