The Affection Quiz: Are You and Your Date Equals?
by Linda Rains

You're in a budding new relationship, you're spicing one up that's gone flat. Whatever the case, you're bound to face the inevitable question: how much affection is too much? And if you want more than your mate, is the relationship destined for eventual disaster? We've got six simple questions to gauge your shared PDA to help you learn if your relationship is on the track for love or an eventual adios.

1. While picnicking at the park, you reach over to nuzzle your date. He/she:
a. grabs the Frisbee and runs for the hills.
b. gives a peck on the cheek and makes another sandwich.
c. scootches closer and wraps his arm around you.
d. smiles slyly and points out a secluded spot behind the bushes.

2. You're walking through town and spontaneously grab your date's hand. He/she:
a. shrieks and pulls it back immediately.
b. squeezes back and finds an excuse to dig through her purse or pockets.
c. holds on tight until you let go.
d. pulls you into the nearest alley to re-enact 9&1/2 Weeks.

3. The two of you are out with friends when you call your date "schmoopy" for the first time. He/she:
a. turns red, glares with embarrassment, and leaves in a huff.
b. laughs out loud at your new pet name.
c. looks surprised, but smiles with acceptance.
d. turns on the baby talk with a retort even more cavity-inducing.

4. You're lying in bed, craving a little snuggle action. Your date:
a. is long gone to cuddle with her kitty at home.
b. squeezes your arm, then rolls over to face the wall.
c. shares pillow talk, keeps you warm, and "spoons" when necessary.
d. takes that as his cue for round two (three or four).

5. Your date has just returned from a 5-day business trip. You suggest dinner. He/she:
a. is already at the club with friends.
b. yawns and makes a date for the next day.
c. offers to stop for groceries or take-out on the way over.
d. barely says hello before mauling you in the doorway.

6. You're smiling coyly, whispering sweet-nothings, giving compliments... generally flirting your heart out. Your date:
a. is too busy flirting with the waitress, bartender, cashier to notice you.
b. won't stop talking about work, sports and friends.
c. smiles, returns the compliments, and has only eyes for you.
d. calls a cab, pays the tab, and can't keep his hands to himself.

Mostly As: Looks like trouble's brewing. If you answered A to most of these questions, your date is either one cold, unaffectionate turkey or he's completely uninterested. More than likely, he's waiting on you to do the dirty work: end the relationship. And he's displaying a lack of love as often as possible to inspire your exit. On the off-chance he's simply unaware of his actions (highly unlikely), don't bail without notice. Tell your date about your concerns, give a chance to explain. If he's got no excuse for his lack of amore, move on.

Mostly Bs: So maybe your date just isn't the affectionate type. Or perhaps the relationship is new and she's unsure how to act. If you answered B to most of these, questions, don't worry there IS hope. Most often, it seems you're date's best intentions are there, she just doesn't follow through physically or verbally. Pet names often leave her speechless, you're always first to make a move. Your best next step? Tell your date how you feel, give a hint that you need more. A little communication and you might unleash a whole new world of affection!

Mostly Cs: Congratulations! You've got the perfect concoction of love, affection and romance. The balance is almost uncanny and at times it seems you're reaching for each other's hands at the same time. You never say goodbye without a smooch, and hey, if you're in the mood for a little pet name action, she's game too. You've got your moments, but more than likely, you're the envy of all your coupled (and single) friends.

Mostly Ds: Pull back the reigns on this one before the relationship explodes! This over-the-top behavior is often typical in the beginning of a relationship, say three months (or if you're under the age of 18) - but keep it up beyond that and you may find trouble. What you and your date need is balance. Enjoy the rush of excitement while it lasts and do your best to keep it private, but if you'd like your friendship to develop past lust and into love, slow it down (at least in public).