Section 3
Boundaries Basics
Young adulthood is a time of building independence, navigating relationships, and establishing a sense of identity. During this stage, many people face new demands from school, work, friendships, or romantic relationships. Learning about boundaries—what they are, why they matter, and how to set them—is an essential skill for protecting mental health and fostering healthy connections.
Boundaries are the limits we set to define what is acceptable for ourselves in relationships and interactions. They help young adults honor their values, manage stress, and maintain balance between personal needs and outside expectations. Without boundaries, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, taken advantage of, or disconnected from one’s true self. Clear and respectful boundaries create a foundation for trust, respect, and mutual understanding.
By learning boundary-setting skills, young adults strengthen their self-awareness, protect their well-being, and build relationships that are supportive and respectful.
Why “Boundaries Basics” Matters
Boundaries support mental health:
Research shows that poor boundaries are linked with higher stress, burnout, and difficulty regulating emotions, while healthy boundaries promote psychological well-being (Keller et al., 2018).
They protect against unhealthy relationships:
Young adults who establish clear boundaries are less likely to experience relationship conflict, codependency, or manipulation (Riggio, 2010).
Boundary-setting builds identity and autonomy:
The ability to say “yes” and “no” in alignment with personal values strengthens a young adult’s sense of self and independence (Hill & Davidson, 2010).
Healthy boundaries improve communication and respect:
When young adults communicate their needs clearly, they build stronger, more respectful, and more supportive relationships (Chapman & Keung, 2020).