Not being from the same culture can cause many difficulties when it comes to dating. At its core is the overwhelmingly individualistic Western society that is more concerned with what benefits them and their individual desires rather than their community. Eastern cultures, on the other hand, are based on collectivistic societies with idealistic goals rather than pursuits that will benefit their entire community. What we know as dating is reshaping our culture. There is a big difference between dating in the East and the West.
1. Choosing a partner
Western – In the West, choosing the right partner is based on appearance whether you are in love with that person or not. But when it’s time for the final election, romance takes center stage. Economic status has no role here.
In Near Eastern cultures, parents generally choose the marriage partner and ignore the deciding factors. Even if the marriage is not planned, family stability and financial condition play a role in the choice rather than physical attraction.
2. Dating
Western – It is common to date several people at once and even have and feel normal relationships with several people before marriage. In these circumstances, their goal is not always to get married.
Eastern – In many Eastern cultures, meeting before marriage is completely prohibited. People are expected to practice self-control before marriage.
3. Marriage-
Western – Most of the couples have spent a long time together before marriage and have even spent the night together. They spend their dating period on their own terms and decide the fate of their relationship, which may or may not include children.
Eastern – In most Eastern marriages, the parents organize marriage meetings and introduce their children to each other. Soon after marriage it is expected that they will have children or think about it.
4. Woman in-charge-
It is common for Western- American and European girls to be completely independent, take responsibility and wear pants. It is normal and acceptable if a woman earns outside of her partner.
East – Generally speaking about freedom here, women are subordinate to men. It is the man’s job to fulfill the responsibilities of the family. Women’s freedom is not viewed favorably here.
5. PDA-
Western – You may see Western couples holding hands, showing their affection, or hugging each other in public to show their affection.
Eastern – PDA Considered abnormal and offensive in Eastern cultures. Touching or showing affection to someone of the opposite sex is condemnable.
6. Discussing polarizing topics-
Western – Generally avoided in initial meetings. But it is important for Westerners to discuss their taboo and personal politics, sexual preferences and other topics.
Eastern – These topics are not discussed in any definite form. this is unacceptable. This is considered rebellion. You can take the opinion of your parents.
7. Staying alone-
Western – It is normal for Western girls to live alone before marriage, or to live in groups in a room with boys and girls.
Eastern – In these countries, it is prohibited for a man and a woman to live together before marriage. It is not right for a woman to share a room with a man. Normally in these situations she can live in the room with the woman before marriage.
8. Equality-
Western – In the West we talk about estimating similarity between two people based on their personality traits based on their gender. This is also mainly for the natural personality.
Eastern – Generally men are dominant in eastern relationships. Whereas women are subordinate to them. Most of the decisions are taken by men, which gives relief to some people that they do not have to constantly fight the situation. This situation is difficult for subordinate women.
9. Practicality-
Western- Love is dominant in the West and occupies the highest position. If you are looking for a wealthy man then you may be considered a ‘gold digger’.
In the East, if you feel that you can live a good life with someone, then love is not necessarily the determining factor. However, the salary and career options may vary. Although in the West people consider it as a gold digger. Eastern men view this from a practical point of view as someone who plays the role of a provider.