Modern Manners for a New Generation

Today’s teen aged girls aremore independent, outspoken and goal oriented than ever before.

As gender roles continue to change,young men may be confused as to whatis consideredappropriate behavioron the dating scene.A boy who has been yelled at for holding a door open for a young lady, may be confused by the demerit he receives for not opening the car door for his date.

How does a teenage boyapply due courtesy, without getting placed into the terminal “nice guy” pile?

Very simple.

Observe some of the basics of manners and etiquette, but don’t go over board.As a woman, I like courtesy, but too much of a good thing can be just as off putting.You don’t want to appear stiff and unnatural-use these tips with due moderation.

TEEN DATING ETIQUETTE FOR BOYS

GO TO HER PARENTSDOOR-If you want the girls father to think you are a closet serial killer, by all means, impatiently honk the car horn, but if you like this girl, go the extra mile and actually walkup to the front door to pick up your date.

OPEN THE CAR DOOR-Just because I am an independent woman doesn’t mean I don’t like to be treated special.Opening the car door is a small, but significant gesture of respect.

PULL OUT HER CHAIR-This quaint little touch makes a girl feel appreciated and will puta blush in her cheeks.

NO CELL PHONES-Nothing says “I think I am out with a loser” better thanhaving someone talk on a cell phone during a date.Turn it off, or better yet, keep the thing in the car.

TEEN DATING ETIQUETTE FOR YOUNG LADIES

I know we girls tend to think it is all about us, but how we treat our men matters too.Men are just as deserving of courtesy, besides, how can we expect to receive what we ourselves won’t give.

LEAN OVER TO OPEN THE CAR DOOR-after your date has so obligingly opened the car door for you, reach over and open the driver’s side door.I have done that and many men have exclaimed that it was the first time a woman ever thought to do it-I find this extremely sad.If you really like the guy, this will make him feel thought about and appreciated.

GO TO THE FRONT DOOR-If you drove over to his home, then get out the car and go to the front door.If his Mom or Dad answers the door, politely introduce yourselfand make small talk until your date arrives.

TURN OF THE CELL PHONE…That goes for you too–duh!

FINAL NOTE:Who Pays-If she asked you out, she pays-if the boy asked the gal out-he pays-just be honest about what you can or cannot afford.Hopefully, the date of your choice will understand!

That’s it-have a good time, and remember to always mind your curfew!