by Sarah Fulkes

Created on: December 06, 2007   Last Updated: January 16, 2012

In all honesty, this is a trick question. A more appropriate question would be, "Can you trust anyone in a dating situation?" But the short answer is yes, you can.

The facts are that relationships are not built in a day. Whatever they might have written or say about themselves can only be proven over the course of time, as a prudent person will recognize. Anyone wishing to establish a long-term relationship will allow that trust and honesty to be established over a period of time.

Having said that, it has been my personal experience that people on these sites, and I've been a member of several, are honest about themselves and their attentions. It is in their best interests to do so. The many lonely people in this world are not likely to risk their chance at lasting happiness with dishonest behavior. Everyone wishes to be accepted for who they are, not for some persona they project. Most are wise enough to recognize the sense in honestly portraying themselves.

Unfortunately, the stories of real relationships that work never make the evening news. We are instead treated to horrific tales of Internet dating gone wrong. The 99% percent are never mentioned, the 1% is upheld as the standard.

As with any relationship, it is important to follow the established rules of relationships when looking online. Be cautious. Take care not to reveal personal information until you are confident the person will not abuse said knowledge. Allow the relationship to develop over a period of time. Trust your own perceptions. In short, follow the common sense you would need when beginning any relationship, no matter how or where it began.

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