Article: If someone has repeatedly asked you out and you have repeatedly declined, say something like, “I’ve already told you I’m not interested in going out. It makes me uncomfortable that you keep asking me.” Chances are this will stop the person from asking you out again—perhaps they didn’t realize their advances were making you uncomfortable to begin with. If someone tries to argue with you or convince you that you should go out with them after you’ve already expressed you do not want to, it is okay to say something like, “I’m just not interested,” and walk away or stop responding to emails or texts. You could even say something like, “I’m not interested in going out with you, and I feel like you aren’t listening to me when I say so. Please don’t contact me again.” If you feel like you owe someone a date because they are nice or did something for you, keep in mind that you get to decide who you spend time with. If your gut is telling you it’s not a good fit, listen to that.  Trust your instincts and remember that you don’t need to give anyone an excuse for why you don’t want to go on a date with them if you don’t want to—simply not feeling it is reason enough. If you’re in a conversation with somebody who is making you feel uncomfortable and isn’t taking your cues that you don’t want to go out with them, it may be time to make up that fake significant other. Say something like, “I’m actually involved with someone else.” You could also say something like, “I’m traveling a lot for work lately and don’t have the time or energy to date anyone right now.” While it isn’t ideal to lie, if you feel like someone isn’t going to take you at your word that you’re not interested, it may be the quickest way to end a conversation. If someone won’t take “no” for an answer and persistently asks you out after you’ve expressed that they’re making you uncomfortable, tell somebody and consider filing an official complaint with the police. The police may not be able to do anything, but if you make a record and the person continues to harass you, you could end up being able to get a restraining order against them. If anything, making the report will hopefully communicate to that person that their actions are inappropriate.  If you’re a teen, make sure to tell your parents or a trusted adult about the harassment. They may be able to intervene on your behalf or help you make an official report with the police department. If someone is harassing you online or via text, take screenshots of those messages so you can use them as evidence of the harassment.

What is a summary?
Use direct language with someone who won’t take “no” for an answer. End the conversation with someone who tries to argue with you. Remember that you are not obligated to spend time with anybody. Give a fake excuse if you feel uncomfortable. Report harassment to the officials.