Sex and Relationships

A guide to online dating

When you meet a man face-to-face, you can quickly determine whether he's worthy of your heart. There's the way he expresses himself, as well as how he carries himself (not to mention the chemistry).

You can tell immediately whether his body language is shifty or open. But how can you tell when you meet online? With online dating, it's much harder to judge.

Follow our guide to the men to avoid online:

Mr. Soon-to-Be-Separated: At least the man sporting this obnoxious online handle is honest about his marital status. If he doesn't come right out and admit he's an adulterer wannabe, how can you know to keep your cursor clear? If he doesn't have a photo posted, or his photo is so fuzzy or so far away even his mother can't recognise him, chances are he's married.

Mr. Wink, Wink: What is the definition of a cheap man? Someone who keeps sending you 'winks' and/or 'collect calls,' those free options offered on some sites to send an email without writing a message - or paying a subscription fee. This is just plain wrong. He's sending it because it's free. In addition to being cheap, it's a sign that he's contacting lots and lots of people. Everyone wants to feel special. There's nothing special about a cyber-wink.

Mr. One-Track Profile: You know the type. His profile describes - and requests - the perfect woman. She must have everything from a 36D chest to a size-eight figure, to well-manicured hands and straight black hair. In other words, none of his words are about whether his Ms Dreamboat is well read, well mannered or cares about the homeless. Character isn't a factor as long as she's drop-dead gortgeous. And what sort of activities does he enjoy with his lady friend? Movies, theatre, sailing? Chances are he's only looking for sex.

Mr. Not So Picture-Perfect: While a man who posts no photos might literally be otherwise engaged, a man who is posed arm in arm with a gorgeous beauty who is clearly not a sibling - well, he's probably a player. You can't take everything in the profile at face value. Ask now so you won't regret later.

Mr. Busy Signal: He leads such a full, happy life it's too much bother to complete the online questionnaire. Question after question is followed with the answer 'Will Discuss Later.' If he's too lazy to be thoughtful for a few minutes, he's not worth it.

Mr. Bitter: A sure sign he's a sleaze is if he blasts ex-girlfriends in his profile. Some dating sites have a question for singles: What contributed to the end of your last relationship? Well, some guys go to town: 'The bitch cheated on me,' or, 'Like all women, she was only out for herself.' A man who rants at the opposite sex in a forum where he's trying to promote his soft, appealing side is flashing a bright red flag.