Are Political / Social Viewpoints a Deal-Breaker for Dating?

Advice
  • Friday, September 03 2010 @ 05:12 pm
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We are living in a politically polarized society, and many daters are finding it hard to compromise if someone's political or social viewpoints differ from their own. How much importance should you place on your political compatibility, and at what point do differences become a deal-breaker in the relationship?

Following are some guidelines to determine whether a relationship has a chance to grow, or if it would be better to cut your losses:

  • Are your values the same? Many couples differ in political opinions, but their core values are similar. If you find yourselves voting for different political candidates and taking opposing sides on issues, this is not a problem if you both have similar personal values like raising children, fostering your relationship, and respecting each other's opinions.
  • Are you tolerant of people whose viewpoints differ from yours? If you find that you are only able to interact with people whose opinions align with yours, you may have a tough time keeping any relationship going. Most people don't agree on everything, so it's important to keep an open mind. Even when you feel passionately about an issue, if you're not being tolerant of your date's opinions, it will be a relationship deal-breaker.
  • Is your partner tolerant of your differences? If you are willing to listen and allow your partner to have his differing political opinions, then he should be just as respectful of yours. If you are with someone who wants you to change for him, this is a deal-breaker. Tolerance, respect and understanding are all keys to a good, healthy relationship.
  • Do you respect each other's opinions? If you end up in a screaming match every time you attempt to talk about an issue or the latest news report, you may want to reconsider dating each other. Respect for each other's opinions means listening as well as talking. Also, don't try to change your significant other's stance. In this case, agreeing to disagree is the best way to go. If you can't, move on.