In cultures where dating or courtship is acceptable, dating can help youth develop friendships and eventually find an eternal companion. Youth in the Church are taught to wait until at least age 16 to begin dating and to date only those who have high moral standards. A young man and a young woman on a date are responsible to help each other maintain their standards and to protect each other's honor and virtue.
Additional Information
For the Strength of Youth, a Church publication for young men and young women, contains the following counsel regarding dating:
“Do not date until you are at least 16 years old. Dating before then can lead to immorality, limit the number of other young people you meet, and deprive you of experiences that will help you choose an eternal partner.
”Not all teenagers need to date or even want to. Many young people do not date during their teen years because they are not yet interested, do not have opportunities, or simply want to delay forming serious relationships. However, good friendships can and should be developed at every age.
“When you begin dating, go in groups or on double dates. Avoid going on frequent dates with the same person. Make sure your parents meet those you date. You may want to invite your dates to activities with your family. Plan dating activities that are positive and inexpensive and that will help you get to know each other. Do things that will help you and your companions maintain your self-respect and remain close to the Spirit of the Lord” (“Dating,” 24-25).
Scripture References
Church Magazine Articles
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If you’d like a top grade in marriage preparation, let these couples tutor you. This is one time it’s perfectly okay to get answers from someone else.
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“Searching for the One You Will Marry”
It takes time and the right ingredients to cook up a great relationship. Here’s a favorite—and foolproof—recipe.
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Answers are intended for help and perspective, not as pronouncements of Church doctrine.
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Answers are intended for help and perspective, not as pronouncements of Church doctrine.
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“A Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for Youth”
Text of a talk given to youth and young single adults on 12 November 2000 at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City and broadcast by satellite throughout the Church.
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“Receive the Temple Blessings”
It is a place of peace, solitude, and inspiration. Regular attendance will enrich your life with greater purpose.
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“Could I Wait for a Temple Marriage?”
He might be my last opportunity for marriage. How could I refuse him and face an uncertain future?
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“Some Thoughts on Temples, Retention of Converts, and Missionary Service”
May you look upon the Church as your great and good friend, your refuge when the world appears to be closing around you, your hope when things are dark, your pillar of fire.
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“Dating: A Time to Become Best Friends”
Courtship is a time to discover who you and your partner really are—and how to nourish your relationship.
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“Choosing and Being the Right Spouse”
Prophetic counsel teaches us that finding a marriage partner takes spiritual sensitivity, maturity, and preparation—including preparing ourselves to be the right spouse.
Additional Study Materials
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"An Aaronic Priesthood Holder Cherishes Womanhood"
Aaronic Priesthood Manual 3, Lesson 30
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"Marriage Standards"
Young Women Manual 3, Lesson 36
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"Dating"
For the Strength of Youth, 24-25
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"Choosing an Eternal Companion"
Aaronic Priesthood 3, Lesson 31
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"Group Activities: A Basis for Wise Dating"
Young Women Manual 1, Lesson 31
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"Dating Decisions"
Young Women Manual 3, Lesson 35
