Friendship and Boundaries Scenarios

This reading includes scenarios that illustrate aspects of being a good friend and recognizing healthy boundaries. Each scenario is designed to be at least 5 paragraphs long, providing depth for discussion. In these additional scenarios, pay attention to the social dilemma presented, identify the problem, and think about a possible solution.

Scenario 1: The Missing Lunch Dilemma
Olivia and Mia are best friends who often share snacks during their lunch break. One day, Olivia notices that her favorite cookie is missing from her lunchbox. She suspects that someone might have taken it without asking. Her friend Mia, who usually guards her lunch, seems upset and avoids eye contact. Olivia is confused and hurt but doesn’t want to jump to conclusions. Together, they sit down to discuss what might have happened, and Olivia asks Mia if she knows anything about the missing cookie. This scenario challenges you to identify the problem and think of ways Olivia and Mia can solve it, emphasizing the importance of honesty and open communication.

Scenario 2: The Game Rule Disagreement
Noah and Ethan love playing board games together after school. One sunny afternoon, they decide to play a new board game that neither of them has tried before. As they start playing, their opinions on the rules begin to differ, leading to a disagreement. Noah thinks that they should follow the rules printed on the box, while Ethan believes they should change some rules to make the game more exciting. The game becomes tense as both friends feel strongly about their choices. They decide to pause the game to think about a solution that respects both opinions. Consider what the problem is here and propose a solution that helps both Noah and Ethan enjoy their game without conflict.

Scenario 3: The Playground Sharing Struggle
Ava and Lily are inseparable and play together every recess. On a busy day at the playground, they both want to use the only available swing set. Ava thinks they can share by taking turns, while Lily feels strongly that she should go first because she waited longer. Their disagreement grows, creating a tense atmosphere on the playground. A nearby teacher suggests they come up with a fair plan. In this scenario, identify the core problem and think about a compromise that allows both Ava and Lily to enjoy the swing. Reflect on how fairness and patience can resolve conflicts between friends.

Scenario 4: The Forgotten Playdate
Lucas and Ryan planned a playdate for weeks, excited to spend an afternoon together. On the day of the playdate, Lucas forgets to inform Ryan about a sudden change in plans due to a family event. Ryan arrives at Lucas’s house only to wait in an empty backyard, feeling disappointed and left out. When Lucas finally arrives, he notices Ryan’s upset face and feels terrible for forgetting his friend. Together, they have to figure out how to fix the situation and plan a new playdate that feels special for both. Think about what went wrong in this scenario and propose a solution that shows understanding, accountability, and a commitment to making things right.

Scenario 5: The Misunderstood Message
Sophia sends a text message to her friend Harper about meeting up after school. Harper misinterprets the message, thinking that Sophia no longer wants to hang out. Feeling hurt and confused, Harper withdraws and stops replying to Sophia’s greetings at school. When they finally meet, Sophia is surprised by Harper’s distant behavior and tries to understand what went wrong. The friends sit down to communicate their feelings and clear up the misunderstanding. This scenario asks you to identify the communication problem and discuss how clear and empathetic dialogue can help resolve misunderstandings in friendships.

Friendship and Boundaries Discussion

This discussion will help the student reflect on the scenarios and understand the attributes of being a good friend and recognizing healthy boundaries.

What did Sarah and Emily do to solve their disagreement on the playground?

Guide the student to think about compromise and taking turns as a way to respect each other's preferences.

How did Tommy and Jake handle the situation with the secret?

Encourage the student to discuss the importance of trust and how apologies can help mend friendships.

What lesson did Mia and Alex learn from their group project experience?

Help the student understand the value of collaboration and sharing responsibilities in a friendship.