Dating In America - Past and Present

In today's world dating is a common word among people who love to post their profile and upload their photographs on social networking sites, friendship sites and/or dating sites. But even before the evolution of the Internet, people were familiar with dating in a more traditional way. Dating has evolved from supervised dating to one night stands. A brief history on dating in America will help us to know more about the differences of dating between past and the present times.

Until the early 1800s, marriages were considered more seriously than dating; marriages were based on social standings and not based on couple's attraction or "love at first sight". The late 1800s saw a transition in dating as it became more formal. Approval from parents was needed. At this time dating was synonymous with romantic relationship or courtship.

In the early 1900s dating between couples were supervised by their parents. Guardians observed the interaction and discussion between couples. The girl's mother invited the boy to her house and chaperoned the meeting. This period witnessed a trend in public dating.

The mid 1900s saw a great change in the style and values of dating, People came to know about each other through dating and were more influenced by their peers and they determined the rules of dating. People were more influenced by movies and advertisements. There was no "supervision" and interactions between couples were without any commitment. Dating became synonymous with dancing as dancing on the first date was considered for a more serious relationship.

Dating became common among high school students during the 50s and the 60s as there were more weekly dating, exchange of phone calls and physical intimacy which led to early marriages among couples. Prior importance was given to love and this was considered as a main reason for a happier marriages.

Presently dating has become more synonymous with infidelity as married couples are having affairs with either their colleagues or "old school friends". Thanks to the online revolution and transition in thinking!

By Pauline Go