When Friends & Family Use & Abuse / Question
Published: April 28, 2007
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm 15 and there is a 17 almost 18 year old girl that really likes me. I like her to but I think her age will get in the way. I also wonder if her partying habits would affect our relationship. She drinks and I don’t. It is really bothering me and would like an answer
Signed: Will Her Partying Habits Impact Our Relationship?
Dear Will Her Partying Habits Impact Our Relationship?,
People have all kinds of different parts to them – in everyone we meet there will most likely be parts we like and parts we do not like. The key in who we form relationships with is thinking about whether or not the parts we like outweigh the parts that might be more difficult for us to tolerate. There are obviously things you like about this girl – however, the difference in age and her partying habits seem to be worrying you. Since you did not mention the things you do like about this girl, FX suggests you consider the things you like about her versus the things you do not – and see if pursuing the relationship feels worth it.
FX also would like to say, that if your gut instinct is telling you that something is off here in terms of the age difference or partying issues – it is fine to listen to and trust your gut feelings about it. When your gut tells you something is wrong – pay attention to it!
Finally, depending on your current relationship with this girl and how much you want to pursue a dating relationship, you might want to consider letting this girl know about what is making you reluctant to want to go out with her. Some people would rather choose a friend or significant other over a bad habit – she may be willing to give up the partying if it means being able to date you.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among 16- to 19-year-olds than among any other age group.
