Is teasing a definite sign of flirting?

[Anonymous]

I don’t about any of you ladies but most of the males in my life weather they’re my friends or crushes or boyfriends or coworkers etc, rip on me constantly. Not even exaggerating 24/7 teasing. You can’t tell me they all like me? So flirting can’t be a definite sign of flirting can it? I’m no bella hadid.

[SueShe]

No, it does not have to always mean that a person is flirting, thank goodness. That would be totally depressing to be subjected 24/7 to that kind of pressure.

Teasing can also be a way to subtly mock a person for his/her behavior or lack of knowledge about a certain topic. Again, this could be a red flag because of the mockery that it involves.

Teasing is definitely something that is acceptable to a certain extend but when it becomes a daily occurrence, then it also becomes a total red flag and if you feel you are the victim of either a flirtatious or mockery by your friends and co-workers, then it is up to you to intervene and to stop that type of harassment.

At work, if you telling them to stop harassing you does not bring any results, then you have to report those offenders to HR and they should act upon it. Harassment does not only have to be sexual but it can also be in the form of mockery and teasing.

[Asker]

Right, of course that understandable as I’ve also been on that end of the scale where the teasing was mean. But with this question it isn’t like that. None of them have taken it too far, its all playful. If they have happened to feel like they’ve crossed a line they’ve taken the initiative to apologize. I know they’re joking and I tease most of them back so they know I’m okay with the behaviour. I guess I should rephrase my question? How do I know if the teasing is flirting or friendly? What draws a line between friendly and flirty behaviour?

[SueShe]

If you know those men since a while, then the teasing is most likely like a friendly jokes or simply teasing.

However, those new male contacts have most likely a sexual connotation and will be considered as flirting. Mainly in your age group, those men will stop at nothing to attempt to try to pick up a girl.

[20yearsolder]

It's not necessarily flirting, some of your friends and coworkers probably know that you have an amazing sense of humor. They like joking with you. Trust me some of them are flirting with you but probably the majority aren't

[Asker]

So how do you know which is which? I think I like someone. And they also tease me in the same way most of the other guys do.

[20yearsolder]

I don't know, flirt back. See where it goes

[Asker]

Lol I think i already do that. Thanks for the opinion though

[20yearsolder]

Unless you are willing to take it a little further you'll just have to wait and see if they decide to step up their game

[Ironic_Method]

Nah. I flirt with everyone, but I'm not interested in most.

[In_Trance]

Nothing is definite

[Anonymous]

I think so