Editorial Standards

These are the rules we hold ourselves to. If we fall short of them, we'd rather hear about it and fix it.

How we create content

Every article starts with a real question people are asking and a decision about what kind of page would answer it best — a guide, a checklist, a definition or a script. We write to answer the question completely, not to reach a word count.

We don't publish invented statistics, fabricated case studies, imaginary experts or testimonials we haven't received. Where we describe a common experience, we say that plainly rather than dressing it up as research.

How articles are reviewed

Every article is reviewed by a second member of the team before publication, checking accuracy, clarity, tone and whether the advice is genuinely actionable. Articles carry the date they were last updated.

How we handle corrections

If something is wrong, we correct it. Significant corrections are noted on the page. To report an error, use our contact page and include the URL.

How content is updated

Cornerstone guides are reviewed periodically and whenever our thinking changes. Updating means re-reading the page against the question it answers, not adding keywords.

Commercial relationships

We sell our own digital programs, and we may sometimes recommend a product from another company. Where a link earns us a commission, we say so clearly on the page. Recommendations are never sold; see our affiliate disclosure.

Education, not treatment

AlfaDarling publishes general educational information about dating, relationships, communication and confidence. It is not therapy, counselling, or medical, psychological or legal advice, and it is not a substitute for support from a qualified professional.

We don't diagnose people, and we don't label ordinary dating behaviour as a clinical disorder. If you are experiencing abuse, or your mental health is suffering, please contact a qualified professional or a local support service.