Title: Teenage Problems Question: I have a serious question concerning new generation and it is that my one of my frends have falling in love with a guy and maybe she is sincere too but I really want to know what Islam says regarding all this. Neha Khan Pakistan Answer: Islam recognizes the natural attraction between the two sexes, and because of this attraction, which at times becomes overpowering, Islam prescribes certain etiquette for its adherents to follow while interacting with each other. The bulwark of the social structure of Islam is the initiation, nurturing and endurance of a family unit which in turn plays a crucial role in the development of a pious and God-fearing society. The individuals of such a society hold dear the values of Hayaa , chastity, loyalty, faithfulness and commitment which serve to purify their minds, bodies and souls - a requisite to qualify for the eternal bliss of paradise. In view of the fact that the societies we live in are far from the ideal that Islam envisages, and young people especially are more vulnerable to succumb to temptations, a God-conscious individual would be cautious of allowing him/herself to even go near such temptations. So, for instance, your friend might feel that she is sincere in her love and might want a friendly relationship with this young man, she would be placing her morality and chastity in a hazardous position, howsoever platonic the relationship may appear. Thus, Islam would want any feelings of love to take the shape of marriage so as to prevent any blemish on the reputation of a woman. This would also be a litmus test for the sincerity and commitment of the individuals involved. You may also like to refer to a previous response to a related question posted on the website, titled ' Why does Islam Prohibit Looking at the Opposite Sex? '. Regards, Razi Allah December 2, 2002 [1] The referred response may be accessed at: http://understanding-islam.com/related/text.asp?type=question&qid=674 .