You know that person you talked to or dated that was always playing games? Always purposefully looking at your snap story, but taking forever to text you back. The person that always leaves things open ended so you never know how to take them? We live in a world where texting is so prevalent that it has become a main form of communication. We are still trying to establish what’s wrong and what’s right when it comes to texting.
As a female, with many female friends, I know it’s easy to over-analyze situations and conversations with the person you’re crushing on... especially when you can't see their face. Boys are complicated, but girls can be too.
I spoke with Miles Aduddell, a senior at Drury University, who verified my suspicions that males and females are fairly similar when it comes to texting.
When do you think it's necessary for a guy to text first?
“In general, I would say a guy should text first 90 percent of the time. But it really depends on the scenario.”
Do you prefer to ask a girl on a date through text or call?
“I think that should probably be worked out in person or through phone. Texting seems kinda childish.”
What do you think when a girl double texts you?
“I guess it depends on the occasion. If she actually needs something then it’s OK but double or triple texting can get annoying.”
What do you think if a girl says “K.” or “Fine.”
“I would say you've probably done something wrong, or said something wrong. That could be taken differently depending on the girl, but for the most part you're probably in the hole.”
Would you rather have a girl text you first or wait it out?
“I think that’s more of a guy’s role, but I don’t see anything wrong with a girl texting first. There's nothing wrong with initiative.”
After a date, when do you expect a text from her? Or do you expect a text from her at all?
“I don’t think there’s really a mathematical equation to it—it’s just whatever feels right.”
What are some red flags for a guy?
“When a girl always wants to see your phone. Or if she ever wants you to block specific people.”
Do guys tell their friends about text conversations they have with girls?
"I would say guys talk about the general conversation, but we don't sit around like 'she said this, what do I say back?' as I can imagine girls do. I mean, I don't know that for sure, but I think guys tend to generally keep things to themselves."
What do you think about girls that take at least one or two hours to text back during a conversation?
“I think texting should be reserved for making plans or getting things accomplished. If you’re going to have an important, drawn out conversation I think that should be done in-person or over the phone. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with taking an hour to text back, because we both have lives, ya know? But texting is less personable.”
So, relationships are complicated and texting can be too—but maybe the person you're texting isn't trying to be. Make a call instead every once in a while, and don't forget the importance of being face to face with the person you like.