Why is online dating conversation with my 16yo so awkward?

3d ago·1 min read

Real question. My son started dating someone he met online (through Discord, supervised, whatever). They text constantly. I'm trying to give him space but also make sure he's not being catfished or getting into weird situations. How do I have the "be careful who you talk to" conversation without sounding like a total boomer who doesn't understand the internet? He's going to meet her in person eventually and I'm not trying to embarrass him but also nervous.

4 comments139 views

Comments(4)

DDale A.Regular3d ago

The awkwardness is probably partly because you're his dad trying to talk about dating lol. That's just inherent. But checking in via casual convos (not interrogations) about who she is, what she's into, etc is solid parenting. You're doing fine.

LLarry P.Regular1d ago

my son is 15 and literally will not have real conversations with me about his girlfriend. but he WILL talk to his mom in passing. might be worth having the deeper convos with your wife if he's more comfortable? not ideal but at least you know what's going on

RRick H.Regular21h ago

honestly that's the hardest part of parenting teens imo - that balance between being involved and not being creepy about it. Props for trying tho. Maybe just ask open-ended questions about what they talk about without interrogating? Like during dinner casually ask about her interests?

PPete Y.Regular2d ago

Discord dating at 16 actually seems pretty normal now tbh. The catfish risk is real but the supervised part is clutch. I'd focus less on the "how they talk" and more on making sure he knows the red flags (asking for money, pics, getting him to isolate from friends). Trust him but verify.