In Japan dating begins with a love confession. Whereas we may dance around the issue of romance, not really brave enough to declare our intentions.
The confession represents a watershed moment. Before the declaration a man and woman will spend time together as friends. Afterwards they will officially be in a romantic relationship, in which both partners are expected to remain exclusively involved in the other.
This love confession is not as serious and scary as it sounds as it is a widespread and expected custom. It also reaps many benefits. There are no blurred lines between couples and friends, everyone knows where they stand.
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In Russia and Ukraine shaking hands is considered unfeminine, as is holding hands. Instead couples prefer to walk arm in arm. A young lady is likely to take offence if you extend your arm and offer to shake hands.
In Iran dating is completely illegal. Instead parents arrange to meet potential matches, and with parental consent there may be a brief courtship before marriage. Girls and boys do not socialise together unescorted. The Internet has made online dating accessible from around the world, challenging the cultural norms, and legislation in Middle Eastern countries. In Iran young people have been arrested for interacting on online dating sites as these relations are considered to be illegal.
In China dating and relationships is a serious business. The teenage years are reserved for education, with no room for romance during High School. Once a young person’s educational studies are complete, with their parent’s guidance they may begin to seek a suitable match. Parental approval is an important aspect in building a successful relationship. Dating is not undertaken for fun, but for the express purpose of establishing a relationship in preparation of marriage.
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In India approximately 80% of marriages are arranged by parents or guardians. Instead of being used to find a suitable match, dating occurs after a partnership has been agreed and a wedding date set. An engaged couple may then go on dates, escorted by a chaperon to protect their reputations and ensure appropriate contact.
A formal courtship is a growing trend in the US, particularly among the Christian community. Instead of dating numerous partners to find a good fit, courtship is reserved for couples who intend to marry. When a man would like to court a woman, he first approaches her father to ask for his permission. This is not a mere formality, but a serious and in depth conversation. The courtship is expected to be brief, perhaps around three months, before a brief engagement. Many couples set their own rules regarding physical contact before the wedding, with many refraining from even kissing until their wedding day.
If you are entering into a cross-cultural relationship, or seeking singles from other cultures on a free dating site, remember that beneath all the expectations and cultural norms, we all possess the same human spirit. Being aware of what is expected in a culture can help prevent social blunders, but don’t be so intimidated about getting it right that you fail to reach out at all.
