Setting Appropriate Boundaries with Teens

Did you know that our brain does not become fully developed until the age of 24? Between the ages of 12 and 24, the brain changes in significant and often frustrating ways. That means when your teen is pushing limits and boundaries, it is serving a purpose. In this critical developmental period, teens need to have a sense of independence, but that does not mean without limits. I often refer back to this great article I read years ago when speaking with parents raising adolescents; below are some things from the article to consider when setting appropriate boundaries with your teen.

1. Empathy... try and remember how it was for you to be a teenager.

2. Allow for natural consequences; try to avoid that power struggle.

3. Remember, pushing boundaries is normal, but you still need to be firm and consistent.

4. Instead of getting caught up in emotions, keep the bigger picture in mind.

5. Your teen's emotions are not your emotions.

6. Model respect.

7. Remember your role; they still need you.

8. Maintain your teen's privacy unless it’s a safety concern or they are in imminent danger.

It can be challenging and rewarding to raise a teen. It is important that as a parent, we give ourselves grace and allow for mistakes. It is a learning process for you and your teen—full article by Stephanie Klindt.