There are many dating relationships that are never meant to be more than casual, but a serious relationship has a host of issues that must be addressed. For those who are only dating someone for companionship, meeting the family is generally not even a thought in their minds. Couples who recognize their relationship has grown to a more intimate level will begin to think about introducing their significant other to family members, and this is just one issue they will have to get past before their relationship can progress.

Casual dating has much to recommend it, but it is not a relationship that will carry two people far into their future. If the couple is considering building a life together, they must find agreement between them on the basic needs they have in common. Their dreams for the future must be close enough that each of them can pursue their own goals, and there will be an expectation that their partner in life will be supportive in achieving them.