How to set limits Help your teen identify their feelings, teach them to trust their instincts, help them identify unacceptable behaviors, also address the importance of digital limits, provide them with key phrases that they can use to allay situations, allow them to practice at home and explain that friendships have limits. You probably remember the thrill of overcoming the limits imposed on you by your parents. Part of the reason it was “exciting” is because you were doing what you were supposed to do as a teenager, testing your limits and expanding your limits. Adolescence is the time to establish freedom and new limits.
However, teens need parents who set limits and control a pace that matches their growing maturity. The truth is that it's not really about you controlling anything. Rather, it's giving them the gift of self-control. When teens are involved in developing behavioral guidelines, they feel that their concerns are being heard.
This makes it more likely that they will follow the rules. Sit down as a family and talk about how you want to treat each other. Talk about what types of behaviors are acceptable. Discuss your mutual expectations and what the consequences of not meeting these expectations should be.
Give your teen enough time to express your concerns, even if you don't agree with all of them. Some families find it helpful to create a family conduct contract that everyone can sign.
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