Psyche logo

How to Date Someone Who Holds a Different Political View

Modern dating is even more complicated when different political views are in place.

By Edy Zoo Published 2 years ago 3 min read
Like
How to Date Someone Who Holds a Different Political View
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

It’s no secret that dating can be difficult. But what if you fall for someone with different political beliefs than you do? Is it possible to date someone with opposing political views and still have a healthy, happy relationship?

According to an article in Psychology Today, this is a question many people ask themselves. The article begins by diving into the differences between liberals and conservatives and how their differences can cause conflicts in a relationship. It then lists ways to spot someone who will make you go crazy with their opposing beliefs and how to avoid bringing up political discussions.

For the most part, for two people to have a healthy relationship, one person does not have to change their personality or worldview to accommodate the other person. So, by all means, although it may seem impossible, it is feasible to date someone with different political beliefs and still have a happy, healthy relationship. Here are some tips on how to make it work:

Communicate openly and often. This is important in any relationship, but it’s vital when dating someone with different political views. Be open about your beliefs and why they’re noteworthy to you. Listen to your partner when they talk about their thoughts. Try to understand their origin, even if you disagree with them.

Comparisons are a common symptom of dating someone with different political beliefs. However, it’s critical to remember that you’re an individual with preferences and tastes, and so are they. And that it’s possible for two people who are bound to share different interests.

Please don’t make it an us-versus-them situation. If you make it a competition, your partner has a higher chance of feeling like they’re inferior in some way compared to you. Instead, focus on building your relationship and having fun together.

Respect each other’s differences. Disagreeing with your partner’s political beliefs doesn’t mean you have to disrespect them. On the contrary, it’s okay to disagree! It can be healthy to have disagreements. What’s important is that you respect each other’s opinions and viewpoints.

Part of this includes not being condescending. Treating your partner as stupid because they hold a different political view is detrimental to a relationship. It’s so disrespectful. Let them have their opinion! You may disagree with it, but at least let them have it and respect it.

You’re both adults. Therefore, you shouldn’t be afraid to share your beliefs, nor should they. It’s a sign of intelligence when you can accept another person’s way of thinking or their political stance on different issues.

Keep an open mind. Disagreeing with your partner’s politics doesn’t mean you can’t learn from them. On the contrary, if you’re willing to keep an open mind, you might be surprised at what you learn from each other. You might even find that you can change your opinions on some issues!

Yet, all of this is precipitated by your flexibility to be receptive. It is key to avoiding needless conflict and to supporting each other. You are better positioned to appreciate another person’s views if you keep an open mind. The same can be said of yourself: if you purport to have a political position, your partner can value it more if they’re open to new ideas.

Don’t let politics ruin your relationship. Letting politics get in the way of a good relationship is easy. Still, it’s important to remember that there’s more to your partner than their political beliefs. So if you find yourself constantly arguing about politics, take a step back and focus on the things that brought you together in the first place. Remember why you’re dating each other and try to keep things in perspective.

Dating someone with different political views can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. The key is communicating openly, respecting each other’s differences, keeping an open mind, and not letting politics ruin your relationship. If you can do those things, you’ll be on your way to a happy, healthy relationship despite your political differences!

advicecopingfamilyhow tohumanitysupport
Like

About the Creator

Edy Zoo

Edy Zoo is an author who writes about social subjects. He contributes to the ever-growing library of social critics.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.