By Linda Perlstein
Sunday, February 13, 2005; Page W20
Ask a group of seventh-graders how to conduct relationships, and much of their advice could apply just as well to adults: “Don’t dance with another girl if your girlfriend isn’t at the dance.” “Don’t hold hands with your best friend’s boyfriend.” “Tell your parents as little as possible.”
But middle school is generally when a person first tries the romance thing, and, as with most experiences, novice attempts little resemble the veteran versions. A grown man is unlikely to say to a grown woman, “You’re my backup if Jessica says no.” It’s socially acceptable for adults to go without a crush for a week, a month, a year. And when they finally do go out with someone, they actually, well, go out.
