What Is Flirting?

Flirting is a way of interacting in which the suggestion of attraction or sex is implied but not stated directly. "How are you today?" can be flirtatious depending on the way it's delivered. If the participants are secure in their belief that nothing will come of it, it's possible to enjoy flirting as part of a harmless friendship. The problem comes when one or both participants start to take it seriously. If you flirt with someone who's vulnerable, under stress, or impaired by alcohol or drugs, you run the risk that he or she will think you want something you don't. If you're the one whose judgment is a little off for any reason, you could imperil an otherwise solid relationship. If you're not sure it's safe, it's better to turn off the flirtatious talk.