Safety tips for dating - KMSP-TV

Safety tips for dating

We all know that dating {online or otherwise} can be exciting and overwhelming, but what about dangerous? Adrienne C. Laursen, LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of The Engagement Coach, provides some great safety tips for both men and women who are looking for the love of their life.

Dating Safety 101

1. Take your time… but not too much time

Be sure to take your time when getting to know someone, and if they're pressuring you to move faster than what feels "normal", consider it a warning sign. Spend an appropriate amount of time communicating via phone prior to meeting face-to-face. But don't spend too much time talking… if that face-to-face doesn't go well, you don't want the other person feeling rejected or like you owe them something based on the verbal relationship you've developed.

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2. Use the Buddy-System

When you're going on a date with someone new, be sure to let a friend or family member know where you're going, who you'll be with and what time you expect to get home. Give that buddy your date's name and contact information and any other details you know about him/her. This tip goes for both men and women.

3. Limit your information

While it's important to be honest and authentic when getting to know someone new, it's also very important to stay safe! A good method for protecting yourself is to limit the amount of personal or identifiable information you allow your date to know. You can never be too careful so don't divulge your address, income, job location, etc. until you're sure this person can be trusted and you're interested in having a relationship with them. (But it doesn't hurt to gather this information from them… see Tip 5)

4. Keep your first dates short and neutral

Again, protect your location and personal information. Keep your first dates to coffee or a cocktail and meet in a neutral location… never let someone come to your home on a first or second date. Again, be sure someone knows where you are and know your surroundings. Suggest a place that you're familiar with and that you can easily escape if you're not feeling comfortable.

5. Do your research

Google exists for a reason, so use it! Research the person you're going to meet. Look them up on LinkedIn, Facebook, Google+, Twitter, etc. to see what they're like in their "real" world. A lot of people don't protect their information so it never hurts to check. Just be sure you don't turn into a stalker, because nobody likes a stalker!

6. Watch for warning signs

Pay attention to how your prospective date carries himself/herself on the phone and via emails or texts. Do they seem erratic or angry? Have you noticed any lies or confusing/contradicting information? Do you have any hesitations about meeting this person? If so, listen to your intuition as it's usually right!

For more information on Adrienne's counseling services and relationship tips, please visit her website at www.TheEngagementCoach.com.