Personal boundaries are the limits people set for their physical and emotional space in relationships. Boundaries help clients define what is acceptable behavior, so they can feel safe and respected. With support and practice, clients can learn to express their limits effectively.
The Respecting Boundaries and Personal Space handout clearly explains what these limits are and how to practice them in different situations. It shows clients when they can set their own limits and with whom. It also provides simple steps for establishing healthy interactions and tips for ensuring respect in social settings.
Learning about boundaries helps young people learn to stand up for what they need. After reading this handout, they can start practicing setting clear limits with other people in their life.
Caring adults can engage in meaningful discussions with them and encourage role-play activities, such as practicing how to respond when someone invades their space. To reinforce their learning, kids can keep a daily log of their interactions, noting when they feel comfortable or anxious.
This handout pairs well with our Setting Healthy Boundaries worksheets.
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References:
- Atreya, Prerana. (2024). Teaching Children Consent Skills Through the Lens of Personal Boundaries and Bodily Autonomy. University of the Pacific, Thesis. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/4270
- Paulus, M. (2018). Preschool children’s and adults’ expectations about interpersonal space. Frontiers in Psychology, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02479
- Stiles, A. S., & Raney, T. J. (2004). Relationships among personal space boundaries, peer acceptance, and peer reputation in adolescents. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing, 17(1), 29-40. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-6171.2004.00029.x
