What we want to do today is begin to set or establish our own boundaries in relationships. You will want to determine what is right for you, and then set the boundaries to keep you on track. By combining our boundaries and our goals we will eventually realize our dreams.

Let’s begin our discussion about setting boundaries by defining “high-risk” behavior and the circumstances that lead to it. OK, now think for a minute and then tell me what “high-risk” behavior is.

*List the responses on the board. (List could include having sex, using drugs and alcohol, or using tobacco, etc.)

Using illegal drugs or misusing legal drugs is very harmful. Even if you don’t choose to take drugs, it can unintentionally happen if you are around someone who is taking drugs. Be careful not to get involved in these situations. Someone who may claim to be your friend may trick you into taking drugs by “lacing” your drink, food, or even cigarettes. If you get drunk or drugged you are in danger of misjudging the situation. If you find yourself in this situation, call a responsible adult for assistance, or just get away as quickly as possible. If you want to live a short life or spend time in jail, just do drugs or hang around someone who does drugs. These people are not your friends. These people are people who display “high-risk” behavior and should not be worthy of your friendship.

Drugs are not only dangerous to your health, but may even affect your fertility and the health of your children in the future. Drugs cloud your judgment and decision-making ability and may lead you to a lifestyle you never dreamed for yourself. Drugs prevent you from growing socially, emotionally, and spiritually and keep you from meeting the life goals you set for yourself. No one can make intelligent decisions about life when their head is clouded by drugs.

Ask students to think about the consequences of using drugs and alcohol. (List could include having sexual relationships. Then discuss the consequences of sex: contracting an STD or getting pregnant.)