More Than Friends Or Just Friends / Question
Published: April 10, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a 14 year old female. My problem is this, there is a guy, he likes me a lot and he is really sweet, athletic and smart. For some odd reason, I can't say that I like him or at least I'm not sure if I do. Everyone is always telling me to go out with him, but I'm just not sure if I should. I'm always feeling pressured by everyone because of this. I don't know what to do. Should I go out with him even though I'm not sure if I do or don't like him. Or, should I just tell him no until I'm sure of what I want to do right now?
Signed: Really Confused! Do I Like Him Or Not?
Dear Really Confused! Do I Like Him Or Not?,
It is not odd that you are not sure if you like him enough to be your boyfriend. Each person has different personality traits and looks that they are attracted to. Dating this person is ultimately your choice. TeenHealthFX cannot make up your mind for you and does not want to put you under more pressure. You may want to take some more time and decide. Above all, date only people you are sure you like. Take your time and decide if you like him. If you decide that he is not your type, that is fine. Do not conform to what other people think is right for you and make your own decisions about who is right for you, now and in the future. Try not to feel pressured into dating someone or for that matter, doing anything you do not want to.
Another issue is that you are 14 years old and you may not be ready for a serious commitment to one person. You will date many people during your teen and adult years and this is normal. Enjoy yourself and the people you date. Dating can be fun and you will learn a lot about yourself and other people.
Finally, as a teenager, you are gaining your independence and having to make choices like this. You will need to make these decisions throughout your life and need to become use to the process you are going through. Sometimes these choices will not be easy, but trust your instincts. Try to find someone to talk to about your concerns. When choosing a person to talk to, make sure that they have the ability to listen and not pressure you into their idea of what is right for you. If your school offers peer counselors, this may be a good person for you to trust.
Remember, always do what is best and healthy for you!
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Statistics show that giving a teen a credit card does not teach them to be financially responsible or to encourage self-restraint, but actually promotes a “spend now and deal with the consequences later” mindset.
