How can you dump a boy as nicely as possible?
I used to have a nice cat called Pob who was not well enough to live but not ill enough to die of its own accord. So we took it to the vet and the vet sent it purring off to kitty heaven.
The cat looked quite peaceful and happy as it died. We had ended its stint on earth in the nicest way possible and Pob felt no pain.
Sadly, this humane option is not available when you dump boys. The problem is that after you've dumped a boy, he will still be alive. And he'll be sad you've dumped him.
So there is no "nice" way. It's more about damage limitation.
Nearly all tactful dumping techniques are a variation on the. "It's not you, it's me" theme. I'm not ready for a relationship, I can't commit, I'm too busy, I've got issues, I'm leaving the country, I'll be dead by Christmas, I'm a werewolf...
These are all good excuses - even if they're lies - because they shift blame away from the person being dumped and means they won't be left wondering what's wrong with them.
To be nice and protect a boy's feelings, you need to be prepared to look nasty or weird or both. Just bear in mind that if he ever finds out you were lying, it will make things even worse.
You should also try to avoid text and email dumping. It's cold. A phone call is much better.
And if this still seems too hurtful, just take him down to the vet... and beg them to give him a free kitten.
Slink says: Hmm, interesting thoughts Kev, but we still think honesty might be the best policy in the long run. Think about how you'd feel if you were dumped, and how you'd want it to happen to you. Treating others as you'd like to be treated yourself is generally a good tip!
Please remember: Kev is not an expert, he is just a boy and sometimes quite a silly boy. The main thing to remember when it comes to lads and relationships is to expect respect as the absolute minimum. Find out more about a Women's Aid campaign of the same name.
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