What Can You Talk About With Your Boyfriend Through Texting?

According to 2012 data from the Pew Research Center, 75 percent of all teens text, and the average number of texts sent per day is 60. Texting is a common way for couples to chat, but it is important to follow basic text etiquette. Some topics are better suited to phone calls or even face-to-face conversations, while others naturally fall into the texting format.

Texting is best for sharing clear information and updates, according to YourTango.com. If you are running late or have a minor change in plans, send a text. It is also a low-key way to let your boyfriend know you had a good time on your last date, share something funny or ask how his day is going. Although it is tempting to expect instant gratification, remember that your boyfriend is not necessarily glued to his phone. Avoid the urge to obsessively check for a response.

Texting is also a great way to share photos, but avoid sending anything that you would not want your mother to see. Always keep in mind that once you send a photo, you have no control over how it is shared, notes YourTango.com. Even if you trust your boyfriend completely, you have no way to know if his friends are as honorable. Cute, fully-clothed pictures from a concert or special event are fine, but avoid logging your every move.

Texting removes body language and facial expressions from the conversation, making it easy for messages to be misinterpreted. In an article for Cosmopolitan.com, psychologist Diana Kirschner notes that both anger and humor can come off more aggressively than you intend. Likewise, deep discussions frequently become garbled and nonsensical due to the limitations of text technology. Save the meaningful conversations for a phone or face-to-face meeting.

Breaking up by text is cowardly and intentionally hurtful. It also opens up the possibility of airing your dirty laundry to everyone he knows. Even if you no longer have feelings for your boyfriend, remember that he is someone you once loved. Show him respect by breaking up in person if possible, or at least over the phone.

Keep in mind that no matter what is going on, you should never text and drive. If you absolutely cannot wait until you get to your destination, pull off the road in a safe location. Also remember that texts can last forever, so never put anything in a text that you would not want the entire world to see.