Dating

Dating refers to the process through which individuals meet and spend time with each other for the purpose of assessing compatibility for pursuing a romantic relationship. Also referred to as courtship, specific dating rituals and traditions vary considerably as a function of historical time period and culture. In general, dating often involves social activities that help two (or more) people to get to know each other, often with the degree of intimacy increasing as the duration of the dating relationship progresses.

Since the advent of the Internet, some forms of dating now take place online, where individuals can sign up for online dating websites that serve a “match-maker” role in helping people to find other individuals with similar interests who are seeking various forms of romantic ...