You're not alone. Lots of people think there's something really appealing about a bad boy — there's a challenge and some romance to fantasizing that you could be the girl to change his wicked ways.

Unfortunately, people don't change because others want them to; they'll only do that if they want to for themselves. I'm with your friends on this one. It's just not a good idea to base your relationship with someone on who they could be rather than on who they are, because you could set yourself up for major disappointment. This does not mean you are not worthy of being treated well. You are. But if you knowingly walk into a situation in which all signs point to you being treated badly — such as dating a guy who's a serial cheater — then you are not being smart, or good to yourself. It is not your job to save this guy. Instead, surround yourself with people who love and care for you, people who have their lives together already. It seems like you have done this with your friends — do it with the guys you decide to date, too.

— Kate Forest, MSW