Sexual Involvement in the United States

The most awkward part of dating in the United States, as in many societies, revolves around sexual involvement. Like everything else in the United States, there are very few guidelines; attitudes vary tremendously from person to person and from relationship to relationship. There are, however, two rules which most people accept:

1. Sex is not expected during the early stages of a romantic relationship, and agreeing to a date or going to the home of your partner does not obligate you to have sex. Regardless of what you have seen in US movies or on television, that is not how dating works in the US.

2. Sex is usually the result of a strong emotional attachment. Those involved in the relationship feel love toward one another, and "making love" is a logical part of their relationship. This does not mean, however, that sex guarantees emotional commitment. There are people in the United States and internationals who view sex as a goal in itself and who attach no emotional significance to it.

Date rape and sexual harassment are growing concerns in the United States especially on college campuses. It is sometimes very difficult to know what to do. On a date, sex should only happen by mutual consent. If either partner says "no" or is not willing, do not force it. That is rape. Sexual harassment is difficult to define, but it means that no one in a position of power or authority can take advantage of that position for sexual favors. If you feel sexually uncomfortable with an employer or professor who has authority over you, talk to someone and get advice. You can always talk confidentially to someone at the Student Health Center.

You have heard of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Though the odds seem slim that you will come into contact with an infected person, this is not something you leave to chance. If you are sexually active, practice "safe sex." "Safe sex" means you and your partner do not exchange bodily fluids. Condoms are available at the Student Health Center and at any drug or convenience store. Use them.