Dating describes a relationship between two people who are romantically attracted and committed to knowing each other better in socially enjoyable ways. Although dating implies romantic involvement, it does not routinely involve sex. It is a way of looking at the person’s potential for a more meaningful, longer relationship.
Dating assumes that young people have the freedom to choose a person to go out with. It may also assume that the selection is initiated by one of the two persons, not an adult outsider. Every culture has its own traditions and customs relating to relationships between females and males. In some traditions, couples cannot act on their feelings of mutual attraction openly. They must be introduced and chaperoned, or there is an arrangement agreed by the elders in both families.
Today, these practices continue in some cultures, though many traditions are changing. More and more couples are selecting their own partners, exploring romantic interests before marriage and modifying traditional practices to better suit today’s need. From the media, more and more young people are receiving messages that are idealized and incomplete when it comes to relationships. Young people are behaving with more in-formalities and intimacies which are troubling to elders. This kind of dating may lead to misunderstandings.
It is wrong to think that young people date just to experience sexual activity. Other reasons why young people date are:
1. Socializing and developing communication skills
2. Establishing friendships
3. Companionship
4. Sharing experiences
5. Studying together
6. Getting to understand each other
7. Opportunity to know self and others better
8. Sharing recreational activities
9. Learning about new things.
There are some general guidelines on dating that young people should observe:
I. Good communication is very important, particularly around personal values, individual expectations and sexual conduct.
II. There must be mutual respect for each other’s wishes, like accepting your date’s refusal to engage in sexual activity.
III. Give consideration to parental wishes, like when you should return, drinking of alcohol and/or smoking.
IV. Know as much as you can about the other person’s character before accepting to go out with him or her.
V. For your personal safety, ensure that someone responsible, like a parent, knows who your date is, your intended destination and expected time of return.
VI. Always have a back-up plan for returning home, especially when you don’t know your date very well.
VII. Avoid the use of alcohol and other mind altering substances that may impair your judgement.
VIII. Go on group dates to minimize opportunities and temptations to engage in sexual activity.
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