Despite the fact that most parents are against their children dating, teenagers often rebel against this idea and date regardless of their parents. This rebellious behaviour has had both positive and negative impacts on teenagers’ lives today.
1. Back then
The teenage dating scene has changed over the years, and this has been contributed to by the rise in standards, ever-present social media views, anti-sociality, and the lack of parental involvement or advice.
A decade or two ago, the teen boy would court the teen girl and then get into a relationship. Teenage couples used to pass notes in class to one another, make physical photo collages together, write love letters to each other, and go on walks. They made mixtapes together of all their favourite songs, went on dates, made radio dedications to each other, and did homework together.
The teenage dating pool was based less on physical attractions but more on the connection they had and the approval of their parents.
2. Present time
Dating at a young age can build up your social skills, teach you to set boundaries, and help you understand how to cater for others. It may also increase maturity, and you get to learn what you want from your future, lifelong partner. However, teenage dating also comes with trauma and even teenage pregnancy. It also carries its own dark clouds of health and heartbreak and often times comes with horrible character development for years on.
3. From teen to teen
To be able to give advice, you should have insight on the topic or some experience at the very least. Here is some advice from teenagers who have been in quite a few relationships throughout their teen dating:
“Communication is key. Do not always believe rumors before speaking to your partner about it.”
“Do not rush into anything; take time to assess everything clearly.”
“Make sure to talk about what type of relationship you are in: is it casual or exclusive?”
“Get to know your partner first before you get into a relationship with them.”
“Remember to move on after the relationship has ended. You are still young. Truly heal before you get into another relationship.”
“Refrain from being dishonest or disloyal.”
There is a quote that says, “If you do not heal what hurts you, you’ll bleed on people who didn’t cut you”. It is essential to know that, as teenagers, we are bound to go through heartbreak, character development, and loss. But it is important to remember that we are young and that we constantly evolve and develop. Thus, we should try to be better people for ourselves and for other people.
