http://www.love-tactics.com/relationships/pitfalls-with-online-relationships.html The pitfalls with online relationships are similar to any other type of relationship. There are a few more though. en-us Tue, 24 Jan 2006 11:13:14 EST Tue, 24 Jan 2006 11:13:14 EST Weblog Editor 2.0 All relationships have ups and downs, but if you're in an online relationship, there are a few other things to consider. Safety Concerns There's a certain amount of safety in most online relationships--emotional safety, that is. Most people find themselves in online relationships with someone they've never even met. They have this idealistic picture of the other person based on what they know about them from online interaction only. But it's no secret that you can learn a lot about someone by meeting them in person. You can learn a lot about someone by the way they dress, the way they carry themselves, how they speak, their mannerisms...things you just don't think you notice about someone--until it stands out in a bad way. But think about it--you're online with this person who seems perfect in every way, then when you meet them in person, your image of them is blown. They aren't who they seem to be at all. You see, in an online relationship, people aren't always who they seem to be. They want to put their best foot forward, make a good impression, etc. Or, some might really be out to deceive in hopes that by the time you actually meet in person and be so happy to finally meet them that nothing else (personal appearance, hygeine, etc.) matters. Then there are those who are predators. They earn your trust only to get you to meet them in person and make you their next victim. That's why when you finally agree to meet your online "love" in person, you need to make sure you follow these safety rules: Don't let the person pick you up. In fact, don't even give them your address or home phone number until you're absolutely sure this is someone you can trust. Agree to meet at a public place like a restaurant, not at a park or someplace secluded. Let a friend or family member know of your plans. If possible, make the first few dates double dates. Keep your cell phone charged and turned on in case you need it. Try to keep it somewhat hidden so that if the other person doesn't have your best interest at heart, he won't know where to find your phone, but you can still call for help. We didn't mean to take all the fun out of your online relationship. We just want you to be careful. Tue, 24 Jan 2006 11:13:14 EST