The dating scene in the 1950s for high school students was marked by a set of rules and conventions that reflected the conservative social norms of the time.

Asking someone on a date then was typically the boy’s responsibility. It was common for a boy to call the girl on the telephone or ask her in person, often after some initial social interaction at school, church events, or community gatherings. Respectful communication was key with the boy usually asking for the permission of the girl's parents if he was picking her up from her home. This step was seen as a sign of respect and seriousness about the date.

First dates were often about getting to know each other in a public, social setting. Popular first date activities included going to the movies, attending school dances, or sharing a meal at a diner or ice cream parlor. The goal was to engage in light conversation and to assess mutual interest in a relatively controlled and safe environment. The boy was expected to pay for the outing, which reinforced the era's gender norms regarding male providership.

If the first date went well, and both parties were interested, subsequent dates might involve a greater variety of activities, such as attending a drive-in movie, bowling, or participating in a school or community event together. As the dating relationship progressed, it might become more exclusive, with the couple being seen as "going steady." This unofficial commitment was often symbolized by the girl wearing the boy's letterman jacket or class ring.

Throughout the dating process, there were clear expectations around politeness, respect, and propriety. Public displays of affection were typically restrained and sexual activity was generally taboo outside of marriage. Teenage boys were advised to be gentlemen—opening doors for their dates, being punctual, and ensuring the girl's safety and comfort throughout the evening. Teenage girls, on the other hand, were expected to be polite, well-groomed, and to exhibit "good manners" at all times.

Parents often played a significant role in teenage dating during the 1950s. They set curfews, provided transportation when needed, and were usually kept informed about who their child was dating and where they were going. The expectation was that dates would occur under the watchful eye of responsible adults, ensuring that the young couple adhered to the social norms and expectations of the time.

Below is a sample script of how a conversation might have gone when a teenage boy calls a girl to ask her out on a date in the 1950s.
[The phone rings]
Girl: Hello?
Boy: Hi, Susan? This is John from history class.
Girl: Oh, hi John! How are you?
Boy: I’m good, thanks. How about you?
Girl: I’m doing well, thank you.
Boy: Great to hear. Um, Susan, I was wondering if you don’t have any plans this Saturday afternoon?
Girl: No, I don’t think I have any plans. Why?
Boy: Well, I was thinking, if you’d like, maybe we could go to the soda shop downtown. I’ve heard they have the best malted milkshakes.
Girl: Oh, that sounds like fun!
Boy: Yeah, I thought it might be nice to hang out outside of school for a change. I could pick you up around 2 PM, if that works for you?
Girl: That works for me, but let me just double-check with my parents first. Can I call you back?
Boy: Of course, that sounds fair. You can reach me at my home number. It’s [Boy gives his phone number].
Girl: Alright, I’ll call you back in a little bit. Thank you for inviting me, John.
Boy: No problem, Susan. I hope to see you Saturday then. Talk to you soon.
Girl: Talk to you soon, John. Bye.
Boy: Bye, Susan.
This script captures the polite and formal tone typical of the 1950s, reflecting the era's emphasis on respect, modesty, and parental approval.