Unit 2: Relationships - Speaking

Teens face strong pressures to date, as well as get involved in a romantic relationship. A romantic relationship is one that involves feelings of (26)_______ . In fact, over half of teens in the United States report dating regularly (casual dates with one or more partners at different times) whereas a third claim to have a steady dating partner. Young teens usually hang out with friends who are the same (27)_______ as they are. As they reach the mid-teen years (age 14-15 years), they start having relationships with friends of the opposite sex. Such relationships are likely to be friendships or physical attractions. Although most romantic relationships among 12- to 14-year-olds (28)___________ less than 5 months, by age 16 relationships last an average of 2 years. In the early teen years, dating is more superficial - for fun and (29)______ . In the older teen years, youth are looking for intimacy, companionship, affection, and (30)______ support. Desiring a romantic partner is a natural, expected part of (31)_______ . However, involvement in a serious or exclusive romantic relationship in the early teen years can (32)____ problems. True romantic relationships are about intimacy, or communicating detailed, personal information verbally, and physical contact and closeness. Some believe a teen first needs to form an identity and know who she or he is (33)____ developing a healthy intimate relationship. Other experts feel that romantic relationships are a way for teens to learn more about (34)_________ . Many young teens are still defining themselves and romantic relationships may be based on a (35)_____ __ sense of intimacy - in other words, teens don't know themselves well enough to share who they are with someone else.