[rwfromkansas]

That does not fit with the courtship of another poster....the parents were not invovled or at least he didn't mention that. Then again he said they called that "courting," so that may have just been there name for it.

I prefer his method over the "getting permission from the parents" deal to even see his daughter. Excuse me, but I don't think a father of a college girl has the right to tell me I can't see her if I am interested in her. I would respect his opinion on marriage itself, however, though it also would not be the ultimate deciding factor.

I see a lot of problems with the current dating scene, but do not like your definition of courting. I think it gives parents too much control. Now, if someone is in HS still, a parent should exercise such control.

[Cogadh na Sith]

My X-es parents were involved in the courtship and are supportive of me and feel terrible about how their daughter has treated me. They are trying to talk her out of taking half my stuff and my retirement.

It holds no weight in the eyes of the law. I say date and fornicate and keep your retirement guys!

[opus86]

Just to clarify, it isn't my definition. It's merely a definition/method I heard. The whole parental permission thing is a big vague to me, and I'm not sure how it would work with today's 18+ age group.

To me courting isn't one single formula, it's the approach of taking things slowly, holding off on the physical affection, accepting guidance from people who've been there, being responsible. What can be damaging about "dating" (as it is generally accepted today) is when someone jumps into a romance with every person they date, a la "Beverly Hills 90210".

I would add that if my girlfriend's father (presumeably someone in good relationship with her) told me he didn't like me seeing his daughter, I'm outta there. To me it would not be worth the trouble.