Never been in a relationship? This section is for you!
According to Pew Research Center, 64% of teens have never been in a romantic relationship. Although the percentage of teens in relationships is low, the pressure is high to get into one. If family members have ever asked if you have a boyfriend, or if you haven’t had a date to a school dance, you’ve felt this pressure. There is a lot of stress put on young people to get into relationships, but the reason given as to why is always “because you’re supposed to”.
Smith College states that the idea that every single person wants love in the form of a long-term relationship is called Amatonormativity. This concept ultimately does more harm than good, as it puts stress on people to be in romantic relationships, and also devalues friendships and familial relationships. Also, this concept causes life to be seen as a series of goals that need to be met, rather than what it really is, a path that’s different for everyone. Nobody should ever feel pressured to conform to what their life is “supposed to be like.”
It can be really hard to focus on what someone else needs, and on what you need at the same time. That’s a lot to balance at once, while also having to focus on school work, home life, friendships, and taking care of pets (if you have them). There’s a lot expected of teens while we’re still learning who we are. Some expectations, like being in a relationship, are not possible for everyone, so it makes them feel like something’s wrong because of it. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Nothing is ever wrong with you if you aren’t, or have never been in a relationship.
Getting over a breakup? This can help!
Still feeling lonely? Here are some things to do!
“Parting ways” with these closing remarks
Everyone has a different path in life, and that is okay. If you’re not in a relationship right now, that’s also ok. It just might not be what you need right now, or you may just need time to get to know yourself better. You can learn new things about yourself all the time. Just remember, there are plenty of people out there who have struggled with the same things you have, so you’re definitely not alone. It’s ok to take time for yourself if you need it, and there’s no need to rush into a relationship when you’re a teen, especially because you’re still growing. Feel free to give yourself the room to discover yourself and grow friendships or other non-romantic relationships. You don’t need to be in a relationship to “be complete,” you are already completely perfect, even if you’re just staying single.
