Can you explain what you mean when you talk about establishing boundaries for teens within the family?

We want to nurture creative, independent adults, but also create a family culture where everyone is respected. Setting and maintaining appropriate boundaries helps to protect each family member’s dignity (and sanity!) and to preserve reasonable harmony in your home. If you haven’t done so already, put some practical boundaries or parameters in place. These are the basic behaviors or ground rules, adopted on your home front, and required by your teens.  They should be in place at all times.  Most importantly, give teens a role in setting the boundaries.

Communicate clearly what the agreed upon boundaries are, through written and verbal reinforcements. Just as teens need limits and boundaries, they need also to hear the word “no!” and the reasons why they can’t do something. Try to give clear, straight answers. Be calm and firm, but hold to your point of view.  For example, say “Under no circumstances can driving occur while drinking.” Or, “It is imperative that we know where you are at night in case we have to reach you, so give us detailed information when you check in.”