Casual Dating In the New Millennium
Casual dating has its advantages. For some people, dating is not a ritualistic adventure where they search for their one true love and that's perfectly fine. For some, casual dating is a way to stay connected to other people while allowing a certain amount of distance they feel they need. Not everyone in the world is searching for a "happily ever after" scenario.
Often when people break up or get divorced, the first impulse is to jump into another relationship. Many psychologists agree that it's best if people take their time and ease themselves out of one relationship before jumping into another one. This is a case where casual dating has its benefits. It's not a serious venture. Instead, it's a way to share some time with someone on a friendly level to help you regain trust in others, especially if the reason for the breakup was infidelity on your partner's part.
Many people look down upon casual dating because they feel the person is playing games, is immature or they lack a sense of commitment. Sometimes in life breaking the shackles of commitment can be more beneficial. For example, if your last relationship was strained by being involved with someone who was insecure — wanting to know where you were going, who you were with, etc. — it makes sense to avoid a similar situation all over again and by engaging in casual dating you can.
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The problem with casual dating comes up when the person you are seeing isn't aware that you're simply looking to share experiences, not searching for a lifetime partner. Establishing that you only want casual dating upfront helps clarify your position so they are fully aware of where you stand. Now that doesn't mean that someone might not become more attached, but honesty is the best policy, and by telling your dating partner in advance that you're not seeking a life-long commitment, the air is cleared for greater communication. |
