While it may share some similarities with a friends-with-benefits relationship, the two terms do not mean the same thing. A friends-with-benefits relationship is when friends engage in casual sex without taking on the commitment aspect of a relationship. A situationship, on the other hand, lacks a formal label.
"A situationship is that space between a committed relationship and something that is more than a friendship," explains psychotherapist and author Jonathan Alpert. "Unlike a friends with benefits or relationship, there isn't consensus on what it is."
A situationship is a casual, undefined, commitment-free relationship. If that's what you're looking for at the moment, it can give you a chance to enjoy the benefits of a relationship without expending too much emotional energy.
"Situationships can be defined as a romantic relationship that lacks commitment and the associated norms and expectations," she says. Considering all these labels are (ironically) used to define otherwise label-free relationships, here's why experts think so-called situationships have become common.
It's emotionally connected, but without commitment or future planning. The labels “boyfriend” and “girlfriend” don't really apply, but it's way beyond a casual hookup. It includes going on dates, having sex, and building intimacy without a clear objective in mind. Enter “situationship.”
How long is a situationship supposed to last? Situationships can last for a few days, weeks, months, or even years. Just like in other relationships, there's no expiration date unless one or both of you choose to end the situationship and move on.
A situationship is an informal arrangement typically between two people that has components of both emotional and physical connection, yet operates outside the conventional idea of being in an exclusive, committed relationship.
Unlike being in a relationship where you might have set dates and plans, a situationship is spontaneous and lacks consistency. You might see a person many times one week and then not see them again for a few weeks. "
Even though it is highly likely that one of you is way ahead with their feelings than the other in which case getting over a situationship is the only option falling in love in a situationship is not unheard of.
That's right folks, there's finally a term for your undefined, unnamed relationship. It's called a situationship.
These types of relationships often lack clear boundaries, commitments, and labels, which can lead to confusion and frustration. While situationships may seem convenient at first, they can quickly turn toxic and leave you feeling unfulfilled.
Be honest, clear, and compassionate while expressing your decision to end the situationship. Avoid blaming or criticising the other person, and focus on your own emotions and needs. After expressing your decision to end the situationship, it's essential to establish clear boundaries.
A situationship is an undefined romantic relationship with no clear boundaries or labels. On the other hand, friends with benefits refer to a sexual relationship between two people who are already friends.
To some, the talking stage can be considered a form of a situationship (a label-less relationship); others, however, might see it as a step before a situationship because, again, there's no solid commitment of a potential relationship.
“Because situationships are often more casual than traditional relationships”, she says, “there may not be as much support from friends and family during the breakup.” It can make a lonely, difficult time even tougher; not exactly the dream conditions under which to heal healthily.
But a situationship ending can be a brutal experience. Sure, commitment may not be present, but you can't take away the pain from a situationship breakup. It hurts just as much as normal breakups do. In some cases, even more.
You might also refer to him as something more detached, like my "plus-one," "prospect" or literally, like, "This is my date." Some prefer the tongue-in-cheek "not-boyfriend." You can be coy ("fancy friend") or a bit crass ("makeout buddy") or cheesy ("this is my luvvah") or even snobbish/fake-French.
It's a red flag if they force you to prolong the situationship after months of dating. It's a red flag if they disregard your feelings about the situationship. It's a red flag if they make you feel bad for wanting more from the relationship after countless dates.
It's been three months or more. Three months is more than enough time to know if you want to commit to someone else. You have an idea of who each other is at this point. If they still “don't know” what they want or what they're looking for, it's in your best interests to walk away.
5. Keep Firm Boundaries. You can and should set boundaries in any relationship. If both parties agree on the situationship, they should also agree on those boundaries.
The lack of clarity and commitment can cause anxiety, uncertainty, and insecurity, leading to feelings of loneliness, depression, and low self-esteem. People in situationships often struggle with understanding their partner's intentions and expectations, leaving them with a constant sense of unease and stress.
You can't technically cheat because you're not exclusive, but you're expected to act as a girlfriend or boyfriend, without the actual title of being one, even if only during certain encounters and moments.