* Social pressure: Middle school is often a time of social experimentation, and dating can be seen as a way to be accepted by their peers and to fit in. Being known as a "relationship" or as someone who is "in demand" can be seen as a status symbol of sorts, though that can differ from clique to clique.
* Peer pressure: Friends can influence a middle-schooler to engage in dating. Being in a relationship may be "normalized" by this peer group, or a student dating is seen as a social norm.
* Role modeling: Older siblings, parents, or other adult role models can also have an influence on middle schoolers' decision to date. If those role models tend to date young or have a negative view of dating, middle schoolers can adopt similar attitudes.
* Lack of understanding of the risks: Middle school youth also may not yet have a full grasp of the potential risks of dating, including emotional heartbreak and the consequences of sexual behavior.