Relationships and boundaries
Set a boundary with someone you care about
A boundary says what you will and will not participate in. You do not need a courtroom argument to make it valid.
Reviewed July 15, 2026Do now
Take these three steps.
- Name the specific behavior, not the person's entire character.
- Say what you need to change and what you will do if it does not.
- Choose a safer setting or use text if an in-person conversation feels intimidating.
“I'm not okay with ____. I need it to stop. If it happens again, I will ____. I'm not asking you to agree with my feeling, but I need you to respect the boundary.”
If that is not possible
Keep another route open.
If they punish, threaten, pressure, track, isolate, or frighten you for setting a boundary, stop treating it as a communication problem and get outside support.
Bring in more help
Do not carry this part alone.
If you fear violence or retaliation, do not confront the person alone. Contact a safe adult or love is respect to plan a safer next step.
See immediate-help options →Sources
Where this guidance comes from.
- U.S. Office of Population AffairsAdolescent Development Explained ↗
Whole-person guidance about physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and moral development.
- love is respectRelationship help for teens and young adults ↗
Confidential U.S. call, text, and chat support about relationships and dating abuse.
This is general educational guidance. Rules for minors, confidentiality, healthcare, school obligations, and reporting vary by location and situation.
Make it yours