In today’s hyperconnected society, defining relationships seems to have become an increasingly complicated task. We’re not officially together, but we’re not broken up either; we’re more than just friends, but not quite lovers. And so, in the gray area between friendship and being a couple, a new phenomenon has emerged: the situationship.
What is a Situationship?
A situationship is a relationship that defies traditional labels. It’s neither a conventional romantic relationship nor a simple friendship. It is an emotional and physical connection between two people, without explicit commitment and, most importantly, without a clear definition. This concept perfectly fits our times, where commitment is often feared, and the desire to keep all options open seems to outweigh the desire to build something stable.
Why are They Becoming so Common?
The answer might lie in various cultural and psychological factors. On one hand, we live in an era where individualism and personal freedom are dominant values. Traditional relationships, with their often rigid roles and expectations, can seem stifling or too constraining for those who want to preserve their independence. On the other hand, technology has radically changed the way we interact with others. Dating apps, social media, and the constant availability of new potential connections have created a culture of “permanent availability,” where every connection seems temporary and replaceable.
But there’s also another factor to consider: fear of rejection and emotional vulnerability. Situationships allow people to experience intimacy without fully exposing themselves, without the risk of putting everything on the line. It’s a way to have the best of both worlds: affection and closeness, but without having to face the difficulties that real commitment brings.
The Dark Side of Undefined Relationships
But what happens when a situationship drags on for too long? What initially seems like a way to avoid complications can turn into a source of confusion and frustration. The lack of clarity can generate insecurities, and never knowing exactly where you stand can create a constant sense of instability.
Additionally, situationships can make it harder to transition into more stable relationships. Becoming accustomed to not having expectations and living in the limbo of the undefined can cause you to lose sight of the importance of compromise and building something lasting. The risk is getting trapped in a cycle of superficial relationships, without ever finding a bond that truly fulfills you.
How to Get Out of a Situationship?
If you realize you’re in a situationship and feel unsatisfied, the first step is to get clear with yourself. What do you really want? If you desire something more, there’s nothing wrong with expressing that clearly. Openly talking with the other person is essential to understanding whether you’re on the same page or if it’s time to move on.
And what if you’re happy with your situationship because it gives you exactly what you need at this moment? That’s okay too. There’s no magic formula for relationships, and the most important thing is to find what works for you without being influenced by others’ expectations.
Beyond definitions and labels, what truly matters is the quality of our connections, our ability to be honest with ourselves and others. In a world full of uncertainties, perhaps the real revolution is knowing how to define, clarify, and, when necessary, having the courage to choose.
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This article first appeared on Grazia.it – Author: Elena Zauli
