I’m often surprised to hear that some parents allow their pre-teens or younger teens to date.
I’ve even seen some parents encourage it by jokingly introducing the boyfriend as their future son-in-law. They think the relationship is cute until it leaves one of the two involved with a broken heart when the two kids eventually break up.
I know there isn’t a magic age that determines if one is ready to start dating. It really depends on the maturity level of the teen, but dating at an early age may cause long-term relationship issues.
Are you allowing your teen daughter to date at an early age? Here are a few things to consider as you determine whether she is ready.
1. Early dating may lead to early sex, especially if your daughter has a steady boyfriend. The longer she’s with her boyfriend, the easier it will become for her to give into the pressures of taking the relationship to the next level. Same thing goes for guys.
2. Dating too early may lead to lots of boyfriends and breakups. I’ve talked to many teen girls who go from boyfriend to boyfriend. With each boyfriend, the teen girl gives away her heart and sometimes engages in sexual activities.
It becomes easier and easier in each relationship. Before you know it, your teen daughter has a promiscuous reputation. Instead, help your teen daughter to discover her interests and talents. This will boost her self-confidence and show her that she can accomplish her goals without frequent boyfriends.
3. Early dating relationships take away from forming same-sex friendships because all their time is spent with the boyfriend. Our girlfriend relationships teach us how to develop interpersonal and social skills that will carry us through life. There will be plenty of time for love.
Pay attention to your daughter’s personality to know when she’s ready to start dating. You will know. She’ll be ready when she is confident, secure in who she is and responsible.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
