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Setting Boundaries with Teens

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Setting Boundaries with Teens

This playbook describes a series of steps aimed at helping parents or guardians establish and maintain healthy boundaries with teenagers. The objective is to foster an environment of respect and safety through clear communication and consistent enforcement of boundaries.

Step 1: Self-Reflection

Reflect on your own values and the reasons behind setting specific boundaries. Determine what is non-negotiable, and understand why these boundaries are important to you and your teen&#x27;s wellbeing.

Step 2: Open Dialogue

Initiate an open and honest conversation with your teen. Explain your perspective and listen to their thoughts and feelings. Aim for mutual understanding and respect.

Step 3: Set Expectations

Clearly outline the boundaries and expectations you have for your teen. Discuss the reasoning behind these boundaries to ensure they understand their importance.

Step 4: Collaboration

Collaborate with your teen to navigate boundary setting. Involve them in the process to give them a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Step 5: Consistency

Remain consistent with the enforcement of boundaries. Consistency reinforces their importance and helps your teen respect and adhere to them.

Step 6: Consequences

Discuss and implement fair and appropriate consequences for when boundaries are crossed. Ensure these are understood and agreed upon in advance.

Step 7: Reassessment

Regularly reassess and adjust the boundaries as needed. Acknowledge your teen&#x27;s growth and changes in circumstances that may warrant alterations to the set boundaries.

Step 8: Support

Provide support and positive reinforcement when your teen respects the boundaries. Acknowledge their efforts to comply and encourage continued cooperation.


General Notes

Flexibility

While consistency is crucial, also be open to flexibility as your teen matures and demonstrates responsibility. Adjusting boundaries can be part of a healthy process.

Role Modeling

Model the behavior you expect from your teen. Setting your own boundaries and respecting theirs will demonstrate the behavior you wish to see.