10 Same Sex Dating Challenges

On top of the traditional issues involved with dating, same-sex couples face a whole other set of challenges as well. Collectively, they can present quite a daunting obstacle course for those hoping to find the right partner. The following is a list of 10 same-sex dating challenges:

1. Family – It’s one thing to have to deal with gaining the approval of your partner’s family, much less your own. Depending upon the support and tolerance you have from family, this can make dating doubly difficult for you.
2. Discretion – Not all homosexuals are as comfortable and open about their chosen lifestyle as others. Imagine trying to find the love of your life, while at the same time having to keep the whole process of searching for them a secret from most of your friends, co-workers, and family.
3. HIV/AIDS – There is no getting around the topic and its threat to the gay community. As in any other at-risk group, monogamous sex, refraining from drug use and engaging only in safe sex drastically reduces the risk.
4. Religion – Few major religions openly embrace homosexuals into their congregation, and many condemn the lifestyle as sinful. Still, many homosexuals wish to express their spirituality without prejudice. This can be an even bigger sticking point for same-sex couples than it often is for hetero partners.
5. Marriage – In addition to having to agree on whether or not both partners see marriage as part of their future, there’s the added question of where the prospect is even possible, and whether both parties are willing to relocate if necessary.
6. Children – The choice of whether to raise kids is obviously fraught with more complications than in a traditional relationship. The red tape and logistics involved (adoption, surrogate parents, etc.) can be extremely discouraging.
7. Venues – In some communities, the options available for same-sex partners to date publicly and safely aren’t very plentiful. Depending on where you live, sadly, dating out in the open can be just plain dangerous.
8. Potential Partners – Another challenge is when the availability of viable partners is limited. This isn’t generally an issue in large metropolitan areas; but beyond large cities, your options can dwindle precipitously.
9. Ex-Partners/Children – For homosexuals who have discovered, or chosen, later in life that they are in fact gay, complications arise when there are ex-spouses and children involved. This is particularly difficult when custody and/or visitation rights are at stake.
10. Professional Repercussions – As in the case of family and community, one’s career can also be jeopardized by the revelation that one is dating members of the same sex. It’s unfortunate but still true in many quarters that tolerance and equality for gays is a work in progress.

Taken From Best Dating Sites