When you’re parenting a teenager, boundaries become essential. While teens seem to be automatically programmed to push boundaries to the limits, it’s still important to have them in place.
Below, you’ll find out more about the importance of setting boundaries with your teen and the types of boundaries you should have in place.
Why Are Boundaries Important?
Setting boundaries for your teen is important for a number of reasons. They help to provide clarity during a time of change for both you and your child. Healthy boundaries show your teen how they should behave and what is and isn’t acceptable.
The right boundaries can help to:
- Give you peace of mind
- Let your teen know you care
- Help them to make better decisions
- Make them feel safe and supported
- Provide stability
Of course, teens are notorious for pushing boundaries too. So, as beneficial as they can be, you’re likely to run into a few issues along the way. This is healthy teenage behavior and it helps them to develop their own beliefs, values and identity. You just need to stand firm with the boundaries you have set. The question is, which types of boundaries should you put in place?
What Type of Boundaries Should You Focus On?
There are different types of boundaries you can focus on, with the main ones being:
- Emotional
- Physical
- Digital
Emotional boundaries help your teen to learn about respect, have healthy time apart, and build confidence. They can be used to teach them about how to settle disagreements more peacefully, and how to be assertive when it’s needed. They should know there are certain emotional boundaries they cannot cross in the family dynamic.
Physical boundaries relate to curfews, physical contact and self-care. It should be a given that physical harm is not acceptable at any time. They also need to understand the expectations of physical contact in relationships. Teaching them about self-care will help them to develop better self-confidence and set them up with important life skills.
Digital boundaries relate to how they use the internet and their devices. These days, it is important to teach teens about the dangers of the internet. There should be clear boundaries over when and how they can use technology. Pay attention to rules regarding adding people on social media they do not know. Make sure they know the red signs to look out for when chatting to strangers, in order to keep themselves safe.
How to Set Boundaries
So, now we’ve looked at why boundaries are important, the question is, how can you set them? The earlier you set boundaries, the easier it will be. Think about the things you will and won’t tolerate. What behavior is expected of your teen?
When setting boundaries, make sure you retain empathy for your teen. Are the boundaries fair? Remember to remain firm and consistent too. You can’t let them get away with something one day, then expect them to respect the boundaries another day.
Setting boundaries is important for teens. However, it’s not always easy. The above gives just some of the reasons why boundaries matter and highlights the ones you you’ll want to focus on.
