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LDS Dating Etiquette

Contributor
By Alison Faria
eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)
Garland Tabernacle of the LDS Church
Garland Tabernacle of the LDS Church

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), also known as Mormonism, is a Christian denomination. LDS members maintain a strong sense of community and faith. They also have guidelines that they adhere to in order to live a life that they believe is acceptable to God. When it comes to dating, there are some important etiquette guidelines that LDS members are encouraged to follow.

    Introductions

  1. If a date is being introduced to parents, the names of parents should be said first out of respect. So, it would be, for example, "Dad, this is my date William." Exchanges of "Hello" or "Nice to meet you" should follow, along with shaking hands and making direct eye contact. An interesting bit of information about the person being introduced should also be included as a way of encouraging polite conversation.
  2. Stairs

  3. Women should walk in front of men when going up the stairs, but men should walk in front of women when going down the stairs. This way, should a woman trip and fall, the man will be able to catch her in either situation.
  4. Respect

  5. LDS dating etiquette stipulates that throughout the date, respect should be displayed by both parties. A man shows respect to his date by allowing him to help her with her coat, helping her out of cars, holding doors open for her and pulling her chair out for her. Additionally, if the woman needs to leave the table at a restaurant for any reason, the man should stand as she leaves. A woman shows respect to her date by listening intently to his conversation, and in turn sharing polite, kind conversation.
  6. Kissing

  7. When the date has come to an end and it is time to say goodbye, LDS couples are advised to never kiss on the first date, as that is believed to be sending the message that it is the physical part of the relationship that is of the most interest. LDS couples can kiss on subsequent dates. However, any kisses that are exchanged should be brief and not passionate.
  8. More Etiquette Guidelines

  9. Attire for dates should be appropriate, meaning no tight or too revealing. Group dates are preferable, as those kinds of dates limit the potential for immoral physical contact. On average, dates should last no longer than four hours, and should not last until late at night. If either person does not wish to go out again, he or she should politely inform the person upfront. Also, because their beliefs are such a significant part of members' lives, LDS dating etiquette strongly suggests that members only date other members.

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eHow Article: LDS Dating Etiquette

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