Many encounters between men and women today start with online dating, and these relationships often fall into patterns. Of special frequency is “ghosting,” in which one member of the relationship––usually the man––disappears without explanation after a few dates.

Starting in our late twenties, many women experience tremendous pressure from their family and friends to get married or find a life partner, since being single is associated with unhappiness, vulnerability and general unattractiveness. This pressure is internalized and might become evident in the interaction with a potential partner, creating tension in the relationship and resistance to commitment on the man.

My Advice: Disregard and rise above those pressures and expectations when they put you out of touch with your authentic self. From there you are going to be able to explore your potential and make your own choices, based on your strengths, preferences, and areas for growth.