Here is a guide on how to date while in the closet. [4] X Research source If you’re still in the closet, while you don’t owe anyone an explanation for your choices, it may help your partner(s) understand your situation if you’re open about why you’re not out.
If they say no, you can either accept the answer or try to convince your parents to let you date. However, if they don’t want you dating, it’s most likely for a good reason. Try to make the majority of the conversation questions rather than statements from you. Ask questions like “When did you start dating” or “What is your best dating advice?"[6] X Research source Conversations about dating can occur multiple times and will most likely change as you get older. You’ll probably need your parents’ permission to start dating because you’re still expected to follow your parents’ rules if you live with them. If you can’t talk to your parents about dating for any reason you can find another adult or a support group online for LGBTQ dating resources for teenagers such as or start a GSA (gay straight alliance).
Unhealthy relationship: In unhealthy relationships, a partner tries to exert control and power over the other physically, sexually, and/or emotionally. Disrespect and control are characteristics of unhealthy relationships. Even if there is no physical abuse in your relationship does not mean it is healthy or that other forms of abuse are not occurring. It is critical for young people to be able to identify warning signs of unhealthy relationships before they escalate. It can be helpful to identify red flags in a relationship. [8] X Research source [9] X Research source Healthy Relationship: Any healthy relationship (romantic or otherwise) is based on trust, open and honest communication, respect and equality–and everyone deserves that. [10] X Research source You should be able to be yourself around them. When you fight, you can have different opinions on something and know that it’s okay. You should trust each other, even when you aren’t together, and trust should build over time. You should not be forced to do things you don’t want to do—this could be sexual things like pressuring you to send nudes, but it could also be things like someone forcing you to go somewhere you don’t want to go, or wear something you don’t want to wear. [11] X Trustworthy Source Child Mind Institute Nonprofit organization providing evidence-based care for children with mental health and learning disorders and their families Go to source [12] X Research source
If they turn you down, don’t beat yourself up about what happened; instead, use it as a learning experience to see how you can improve for the next time someone else catches your eye. At a younger age, some people want to experiment, while others want a long-term relationship. Relationships aren’t usually as serious in high school and middle school. Although, many high school relationships can last for years.
Requesting that your partner(s) gives you some alone time every day. Following each other on social media, but not sharing phone passwords. Being comfortable with cuddling and some forms of touching, but not having sex.
Watch the stars Bake cookies Go to a drive-in movie theater or cinema Go to an amusement park Get coffee, tea, or boba from a cafe Get ice cream together
Only about half of high school students have ever had sex, and the average age for beginning sex is 18. Don’t feel obligated to have sex. [18] X Research source
Find appropriate sex-ed for teens and tweens. AMAZE. org is an excellent resource for this. Amaze is a website that uses short, fun, and age-appropriate videos to teach children about sexual education, changing bodies, and positive relationships. Check the consent laws for your state. In many US states, someone under 18 cannot have sex with (or legally consent) someone over the age of 18. Know how to have a have a healthy sex life as a teen if you decide to have sex.
Cuddle. Cuddling with romantic partners is something that many people enjoy. Cuddling and getting cozy usually indicates that your partner is more at ease being intimate and close to you. Many people find comfort in their partner’s assurance that they are safe and can relax their guard, and cuddling has lots of benefits. [22] X Research source Dance with your partner. Dancing is not only a great form of exercise, but it can also be very intimate when done with another person. Take a dance class or dance in the comfort of your own kitchen; either way, dancing can be one of the most natural ways to feel close to your partner(s). Massage each other’s backs. You don’t need to see a professional; instead, give each other massages. It can be relaxing to have that person rub all of your tension out of your neck and back. Cook with your partner. It can be very intimate to spend time in the kitchen with just you and your partner, wearing your most comfortable clothes and collaborating to prepare a delicious meal. Not to mention that it demonstrates your strengths and lays the groundwork for teamwork while making a delicious meal.
