Teens Who Don't Date Are Less Depressed

A new study has found adolescents that are not in romantic relationships do better in social and leadership skills than those that are, reported CNN.

Furthermore, those students were found to have lower rates of depression than their classmates who were dating.

Researchers surveyed 594 10th grade students who reported no to very little romantic activity and examined their emotional and social capabilities to those that said they dated often.

In addition to dating habits, the students were asked about home life, relationships with friends, and if they had symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts. Each student’s teacher was also asked to rate the teen’s leadership and social skills, and if they showed signs of depression.

Based on all the feedback, the students that were not dating scored higher in leadership and social skills, and lower in depression than the ones who were dating.

It should be noted that teens used a broad definition for dating which included “spending time” with someone for more than a month.

This study confirmed that teens who don’t conform to dating in adolescence end up faring well, and perhaps better than their peers in romantic relationships.

“In summary, we found that non-dating students are doing well and are simply following a different and healthy developmental trajectory than their dating peers,” said study co-author Pamela Orpinas.

Orpinas added, "This study affirms that it's ok if you decide to date or decide not to date. Both are acceptable and healthy.”

As a layman, I see dating during teenage years as distraction and totally uncalled for.

I belief strongly this period should be a time when an individual evaluates him/herself, form positive habits, develop personal philosophies and be focused on who he/she is, associate with friends both male and female counterparts.

Not a time to hop into a secretive relationship with another gender all in the name of dating without self discovery.

What's your opinion on this topic?