Body Autonomy
Body autonomy means that YOUR body belongs to YOU. No one else has the right to touch your body in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable, scared, or confused. This is true no matter who the person is — a stranger, a friend, a family member, or anyone.
You are the boss of your body! Just like you decide what clothes to wear and what food to eat, you also get to decide who can touch you and how.
Some touches are safe and welcome: a hug from a family member you love, a high-five from a friend, a doctor checking your health with a parent present. These are okay because you feel comfortable and safe.
But if ANY touch makes you feel uncomfortable, scared, confused, or just wrong, you have the RIGHT to say no. You do not need to explain why. You do not need permission. Your body, your rules.
Trusting your feelings is important. If something feels wrong, it probably IS wrong. Your gut feeling (that uneasy feeling in your stomach) is your body's warning system. Always listen to it!