I think there are times when estrangement is the answer, and boundary setting is also an answer. Estrangement in some ways is the most intense boundary possible.

For example, My family can be quite toxic, so I live far away and have healthy boundaries with them. I am still in contact with them, but know when to end the phone call, or call them out. Also, my family and I disagree on political and religious matters, so when I do visit, we keep such discussions off the table, which feels like a healthy boundary.

A friend of mine was sexually assaulted by one of her siblings growing up. Even though they went to therapy, she still is upset because that sibling never apologized, and her mother and the abuser keep saying she should "get over it already." My friend cut off that family member who abused her, and has made sure that sibling will never have contact with her children (doesn't want them assaulted). That to me feels healthy like a healthy boundary, and that is estrangement. She has limited contact with her mother who supports her sibling, they aren't quite estranged, but they seldom talk as the abuser still lives with the mother and the mother supports the abuser and agrees my friend needs to "just get over it."

One time a close friend of mine got very angry at me and slashed all four of my tires. I blocked them and never talked to them again, even when they reached out to me. No they're not family, but that was crossing a line, I don't want someone in my life who would do that to me. I feel that was the right thing to do.

Where exactly to draw the line is different for each person. But it's not always healthy to just estrange a family member because you disagree with them or they are toxic. I think that's what your article is saying, and you have a very good point there. If my friend ever wants to forgive her abuser, that will be her choice, and she will do so in her own time when she is ready. But if she lives her whole life and never does that, it's okay. Her family has put a lot of pressure on her to "forgive and move on" to keep the family together.

When there is abuse, and other factors, sometimes estrangement is the right boundary to set.