Boundaries are the limits a person sets to maintain their sense of self and protect themselves from emotional, physical, or sexual harm.

Setting boundaries and understanding when they are being crossed is an essential part of any healthy human relationship. And they are especially important in preventing cases of sexual misconduct from arising.

Boundaries create a safe space with clear expectations about how each person should be treated and what is and is not acceptable behavior. When these boundaries are not clearly established and respected, it can lead to uncomfortable situations that could potentially put someone at risk.

It can be daunting to bring up the topic of boundaries with someone, but it is a necessary conversation to ensure everyone involved feels safe and respected. The problem is that often, people are not well-versed in setting and understanding boundaries, especially their own.

That is why it is so important to have conversations on boundaries and to educate children from a young age to understand them and to ensure they are clear that it is their right to enforce them.

Educating children about the importance of personal boundaries—and empowering them to speak out when they feel violated—is essential to healthy youth development. Yet, it is a topic that many adults shy away from. 

We need to raise children to have autonomy over their own lives, know who they are and what they want, and understand what behavior from others is acceptable. For this, we must teach them about boundaries, how to enforce them, and how to respect the boundaries of others.

We can help our children develop self-control and ensure they’re physically and emotionally safe by setting appropriate limits and expectations.

Children and teens may not know how to communicate or enforce their boundaries effectively, but this doesn’t mean they lack boundaries. As adults, we need to ensure we are giving them tools, space, and autonomy to start drawing their boundaries, as a critical tool to prevent sexual offenses with children.  

CLICK HERE for some helpful tips in discussing personal boundaries with children and adults. 

8 People Your Kid Doesn't Have to Hug.