Boundaries
What is a boundary you might set with your roommate around guests?
Sample: “I prefer no overnight guests during the week.” (Open-ended—award points for any clear boundary idea/thoughtful answer.)
What does using “I” statements sound like in a conflict?
Sample: “I felt frustrated when I came home to dirty laundry all over the middle of the floor and dirty dishes piled up.” (Open-ended—any response that uses 'I' and avoids blaming is good.)
Name one shared space that should be cleaned regularly.
Sample: “The bathroom or hangout space in the middle of the room.” (Open-ended—any shared space is correct.)
What should you do if you are feeling too upset to talk right away?
Sample: “Take time to cool off and return to the conversation when calmer.” (Open-ended—look for emotional regulation strategies.)
What is one thing that makes someone a great roommate?
Sample: “Being respectful, helpful, and open to communication.” (Open-ended—any positive trait or behavior is acceptable.)
Why is it important to respect someone’s request for quiet time?
Sample: “They might need rest, to study, or to recharge after a long day.” (Open-ended—award points for any respectful or empathetic answer.)
Name one healthy way to respond to a passive-aggressive roommate.
Sample: “Have a direct, respectful conversation instead of reacting emotionally.” (Open-ended—reward responses that show calm and clarity.)
Why is it helpful to split chores evenly?
Sample: “It keeps things fair and prevents resentment from building.” (Open-ended—reward for fairness and responsibility themes.)
How can you approach your roommate if you are nervous about a conflict?
Sample: “Plan what to say, choose a calm time, and speak from your perspective.” (Open-ended—reward for preparation and respectful approach.)
Share a positive roommate experience you’ve had.
Sample: “My roommate wishes me luck on my exams.” (Open-ended—encourage any genuine or thoughtful example.)
How can you talk about boundaries without sounding rude?
Sample: “Use ‘I’ statements and express your needs calmly, not demands.” (Open-ended—reward for respectful communication strategies.)
How often should you check in with your roommate about shared living?
Sample: “At least once a month or anytime there’s tension.” (Open-ended—accept any answer that shows regular and proactive effort.)
How would you bring up an issue if your roommate is not cleaning up?
Sample: “I’d ask to talk privately and mention how it is affecting me.” (Open-ended—look for direct, calm approaches.)
Why is it better to resolve conflict in person rather than through texts?
Sample: “It avoids misunderstandings and lets you hear tone and body language.” (Open-ended—reward recognition of face-to-face clarity.)
What is something small you can do to make your roommate’s day better?
Sample: “Leave a kind note, take out the trash, or offer to grab them a snack.” (Open-ended—reward creativity and kindness.)
What’s a boundary that might need to be revisited after a semester?
“Cleaning schedules, guest policies, or sleep routines.” (Open-ended—any thoughtful example is valid.)
What are some warning signs that communication is breaking down?
Sample: “Avoiding each other, passive-aggressive notes, built-up tension.” (Open-ended—reward insight into unhealthy communication.)
What is one strategy roommates can use to make sure shared responsibilities/chores get done fairly?
Sample: “Make a chore chart or set reminders together.” (Open-ended—reward any thoughtful strategy that promotes shared responsibility.)
Describe a time when a compromise was the best outcome.
Sample: “We took turns cleaning each week instead of one person doing it all.” (Open-ended—reward real or realistic examples of compromise.)
What kind of traditions or routines could help roommates bond?
Sample: “Weekly movie nights or shared coffee runs.” (Open-ended—any intentional bonding activity works.)