Pandemic times have seen the rise of the situationship, a marriage of conveience in socially isolated times.
Here’s how to know if you’re in one.
But the most nebulous romantic structure thats be on the rise during pandemic times?
A situationship doesnthaveto be an act of desperation.
Generally, though, the defining element of the dynamic is its complete lack of definition.
Okay, so whatisa situationship, anyway?
psychologist, relationship expert, and host ofThe Love Psychologistpodcast
Often they dont discuss their future, intermingle with family or friends, or have traditional dates.
It is very present-focused and can often be based on their current situation.
A situationship is an undefined relationship where partners go with the flow and dont label things.
Often they dont discuss their future, intermingle with family or friends, or have traditional dates.
It is very present-focused and can often be based on their current situation.
psychologist Paulette Sherman, PhD
And hey, that can be fun!
That would certainly make sense, at least.
As Dr. Sherman says, its extremely common for people to strike up situationships when theyre frightened.
It seems easy to spend time quarantining together in a bubble and to not define things.
psychologist, relationship expert, and host ofThe Love Psychologistpodcast
Situationships, after all, are inherently confusing.
Youre left asking, How much am Iallowedto feel for you?
Do I have the right to have expectations?
And if I have expectations, what should they be?
Is there a healthy bottom line?
For casual daters not wanting to be pinned down, this construct is a positive, says Winter.
All of that makes sense, but how do you know if youre in a situationship?
According to Winter, there are a few telltale signs to look out for.
5 signs that indicate a relationship is really a situationship
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And why risk getting family members attached to something so undefined?
Is it healthy to be in a situationship, or not so much?
Thats something to consider as well.
When the situation changes, will they be on the same page?
Both people have to want to and be ready to do so.
Its easy to get out of something youre not actually in, Winter says.
Maybe the other person is also afraid to broach the subject.
Let your partner know what you want, Winter says.
Are they willing and able to share that vision with you?
If so, start communicating honestly and directly.
If not, walk away from the lesser to be open to the greater.
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