Free On-Line Dating Advice: Safety First

Dating without drama. What a concept. I just read a column by a woman who has written a book on - you guessed it - drama-free dating. She offers dating advice and a quiz, and of course she is selling a book. She feels she is an expert because she has always been the kind of girl who had dating "luck", which she explains by having the gift for understanding men. Having dated many nice men and found a fantastic husband, she feels she wants to share her expertise with other women.

That's nice. Her free online dating advice makes a lot of sense. The book offers all the usual tips that demystify male psychology, verbal and nonverbal communication, and general dating common sense we've heard before. Without a doubt, many young women would find this advice helpful. I, however, take issue not so much with the available information, but with what's missing.

As far as I am concerned, the initial conversation about dating without drama should focus on safety and the skills that enable young women to come home from a date in one piece. In my opinion, the first type of nonverbal communication girls should be learning to read is a background check report. Sorry to be so glum, but this is serious. You won't often see this type of warning in other free online dating advice columns. It may not sell many books, but it may save lives.

The world is not always as safe as we would like to believe. Learning a little more about a man you're about to go out with is not just beneficial for self-protection; it also helps you learn a little more about him, so you can have some great conversation starters. After all, if this guy turns out not to have any criminal history, you really should give this date a chance. Definitely brush up on your communication skills and heed all the other free online dating advice. Enjoy dating without drama - safely.