What is the recommended way to respond when a young person asks about your personal life?

• A. Explain that you never talk about personal life.
• B. Share some details about your private life to build trust.
• C. Tell them to talk to their parents.
• D. Politely explain that your personal life is private.

Answer: (D)

Setting clear boundaries in interactions with young people is essential. When someone asks about your personal life, the best approach is to politely explain that your personal life is private. This communicates respect and safety, keeps the focus on the young person’s needs, and models healthy self-disclosure. It helps prevent boundary crossing and reduces the risk of dependency or discomfort, while still offering support for topics that are appropriate to discuss in the relationship. If they have questions about why boundaries exist, you can briefly reiterate that you’re there to help within the appropriate limits and steer the conversation toward their concerns or feelings.