How to Pick a Mate: The Guide to a Happy Marriage

by Clifford R. Adams; Vance Packard

—Limit carefully the time you are alone with a person of the other sex under romantic conditions. It is almost a “rule of love” that the longer a couple are alone with nothing much to do, the greater the likelihood they will pet. Several college girls tell us they never agree finally to a date until they are sure there will be something definite to do—go to the movies, dance or play gin rummy. If parents or school authorities set a time limit for you to be home they are really doing you a favor.

—Learn to sense when either is becoming physically aroused and stop. Again college girls tell us that when they recognize the danger signals they suggest to the man that they dance, go for a soda or take a walk.

—Learn that alcoholic beverages may relax your inhibitions to the point where you will go much further than you intended. That is why some people wisely refrain from drinking or limit themselves severely while on a date.

ARE YOU WARM OR COOL BY NATURE?

Some people respond to their mates with a greater intensity of emotion than do others. This test should reveal your own responsiveness.

1.	Were you reared in an affectionate family?	Yes	No
2.	Do you become excited at a close football or baseball match?	Yes	No
3.	Are you strongly moved by sentimental music or a romantic movie?	Yes	No
4.	When friends are away a week do you feel their absence a great deal?	Yes	No
5.	Do you have a wide circle of acquaintances and friends?	Yes	No
6.	Does it help you to take your troubles to friends? And do you want them to bring their troubles to you?	Yes	No
7.	Are you fond of children?	Yes	No
8.	Do you compliment others frequently—and sincerely?	Yes	No
9.	Does it distress you to see someone in pain?	Yes	No
10.	Do you feel you are actively affectionate with the person of the opposite sex that you like best?	Yes	No
11.	Do you fed you are free from repressions?	Yes	No
12.	When your feelings are hurt do you get over the hurt quickly?	Yes	No
13.	Do you participate in two or three social organizations?	Yes	No
14.	Do you find it easy to mix with casual acquaintances?	Yes	No
15.	In associating with people of the opposite sex are you open and natural rather than stand-offish?	Yes	No
16.	Do you consider yourself well-adjusted sexually?	Yes	No
17.	Do you like to look after a sick person?	Yes	No
18.	Were your own parents affectionate?	Yes	No

If you answered yes to fifteen or more of these you are a warm, ardent person and should be able to work out a satisfying sexual adjustment in marriage. If you answered yes to nine or less you appear to be reserved and cool by nature. Your best chance in marriage will be with a person of similar disposition.

Chapter VII
Do You Frighten Possible Mates Away?