Dating/courting period to the best of my knowledge is a period designed to know your supposedly future partner the more. It is a time when you get to discover your partner's strength and weakness, ability and flaws, likes and dislikes so as to learn how to tolerate each other. Not all dating/courtship leads to marriage. It is however advisable to abstain from sex(if possible) during the period, as this might lead to pregnancy and might be a bond that is uncalled for in case a partner wants to back out. Peace out!