Dating, on a general level, is a wholesome social experimentation. You meet different people, you observe their character and in the process you also begin to understand yourself much better and develop a personality of a kind. Sometimes, dating develops into a more serious relationship. However teen dating is only partially similar.

Teen dating is more platonic and fun. There are usually no expectations of any commitment or fear of betrayal. When you date, you are not in a serious relationship. Dating is more about the exchange of knowledge of two different personalities. Knowing more people is typically a plus point. You are automatically exposed to heaps of information and ideas and in return you offer the same. Dating can be more fun if it occurs in big groups. You must have heard of the phrase- ‘the more the merrier’? Yeah. It’s always nice to have your friends around to share your happiness.

Feelings of attraction are inevitable whilst dating, especially if the chick opposite you resembles Elizabeth Hurley or if the guy looks like Brad Pitt (as if). Your feelings at this equate to a ‘crush’. When you are young and you have hardly any experience, you aren’t likely to know what love is. So please, don’t get confused. Real life is hardly anything like bollywood.

Dating is positive, if you let it be. Most of you would have wished that your parents could understand you better and just let you date! Well, you can’t blame them. Parents have their own set of responsibilities. Dating in the past was extremely platonic. Couples used to get to know each other in a structured setting usually guided by social norms and pressures. In those days, a crush was just something you giggled over with your girlfriends or fantasized over silently. It would have been difficult to take it any further because things like that were just not done.

But today the rules have changed. Teenagers of both sexes have greater opportunities to mix freely and the taboos on friendships with the opposite sex have definitely been relaxed. Its due time parents realize that the world is a different place from time when they were teenagers. Parents have to come round to the view that platonic relationships are possible between boy and girl. Teens too have to play their part and understand that parents are not against us getting to know more people and socialising, but their warning bells are usually set at automatic mode and start ringing the moment they understand that their child are taking interest in the opposite sex.

A parent’s role in teen dating is very important. Parents might hate the very idea of dating because they think it distracts their children away from their studies and so and so forth. This is where teenagers can make an initiative and try communicating with their parents. Explain to your folks that dating is part and parcel of growing up and you are just keen on the experience. But they should be a compromise somewhere and parents being parents should start taking responsibility to educate their kids about relationships. Too often teens start dating without preparatory talks from their parents and without the proper guidance they usually get into trouble.

Many may ask when the right age to date is. I believe 16 is just nice. You have some level of maturity and space in the brain to learn heaps of stuff. Maybe you can start by group dating. This form of dating is apparently the safest form and definitely more fun. You and your date are at a comfortable level thus making it easier for you guys to communicate. After a few group dates, when you think you are ready, plan a movie together or even a simple dinner.

(Making the first move)

It doesn’t really matter who makes the first move. We are living in the 21 st century and we practice equality among both sexes. There are many ways you can approach your date. The most common way is to get help from a mutual friend. If this fails, especially when distortion occurs, you can try writing a letter. Be simple in expressing your attraction towards him or her. You can always try different ways of approaching your date- but make sure it’s genuine.

(While Dating)

If your dating intentions are clear, your ship will be sailing smooth in no time. Teens should pay more attention on boasting each others confidence. Daters’ should develop good communication skills and learn from each other. Even if you get into an argument, be sure to handle it tactfully in a humanely manner. Your interaction with your date should be a positive and enriching experience that will prepare you for real life. Its also very important to respect other thus making your whole dating process very pleasant.

Studies and Dating (We know you hate this part)

It’s only natural to get over-excited once you have started dating but don’t let this over-whelming experience distract you away from your studies. Teens must understand that studies should always take priority. Don’t ever put your school work on hold for your date who is completely unimportant compared to your studies. Respect yourself and your priorities and you will be treated likewise by your date. (A date with brains that is.)

We all know that sometimes when we get too caught up with our feelings; we ignore the physical aspect of dating and pretend as if we are unaware. We should never disrespect our bodies and let our dates do the same. Ever wondered how so many girls get pregnant and wondered why some of them dump their new-borns in rubbish-chutes? It usually starts with unguided dating and wrong desires. Most teens do not understand what dating is. Teens are at the most influential part of their lives. It’s really important that teens are equipped with the right information.

So, you think you are all set to date? Well you might want to use some tips on how you can ensure a smooth-flowing successful date. But do remember that these tips may not be applicable to all situations. These are just some general pointers and sometimes you just have to use your brains.

DATE DO’S	DATE DON’TS
Be Yourself Stay calm and positive. Be on time Make an effort to make you date feel comfortable Be a good listener Dress decently and presentably. Show respect to likes and dislikes.	Put up a façade to impress your counter-part Talk about long term commitment Probe or ask too many questions Eat with your mouth open. Take dating so seriously to the extent you start questioning your self-worth.