A dating relationship between officers and enlisted personnel is prohibited if it is exploitative or coercive in nature. Which option best reflects this policy?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only if in the same unit
• D. Only if money is involved

Answer: (A)

Dating between officers and enlisted personnel is prohibited when the relationship is exploitative or coercive. The reason is clear: a power imbalance exists because an officer holds authority over a subordinate, and any romantic involvement that leverages that authority can pressure the subordinate, create favoritism, or damage trust and good order. The rule focuses on the nature of the relationship itself, not on where the people are or whether money is involved. So when a dating relationship is exploitative or coercive, it’s not allowed, which is why the correct stance is that such relationships are prohibited.