Lately, there’s been a lot of buzz about “situationships”—a term for relationships that aren’t officially dating but aren’t just platonic either. On the other hand, friends with benefits is more straightforward: you know what you’re getting into, both can date others, and there’s no commitment. So, what sets a situationship apart from friends with benefits, and which is better?
Situationships vs Friends With Benefits
A situationship is essentially a relationship that’s undefined or uncertain. Meanwhile, a friends with benefits arrangement involves a sexual relationship between friends who aren’t committed. The key difference is that a situationship doesn’t usually have the friendship foundation that friends with benefits do. In a situationship, you might see each other regularly but aren’t exclusive or even necessarily friends—just two people satisfying mutual needs without commitment. Friends with benefits, however, involves a clear friendship where both parties also engage sexually, often without drama or complications.
Differences Between Situationship and Friends With Benefits
1. Complexity: Situationships are typically more complicated, with potential feelings involved, whereas friends with benefits should ideally be straightforward and free from emotional entanglement.
2. Convenience: Situationships can be more about convenience, allowing you to avoid seeking something more serious, while friends with benefits are purely physical.
3. Potential for Heartbreak: Situationships can lead to heartbreak if one person becomes too attached, which is less common in friends with benefits scenarios.
The Cons of Friends With Benefits Relationships
1. Boundary Issues: It can be tough to set and communicate boundaries, leading to feelings of being used or hurt.
2. Risk of Attachment: There’s always a possibility that one person might develop feelings, causing jealousy and possible breakups.
3. Distraction: These relationships can sidetrack you from other important aspects of your life, such as friends, family, and hobbies.
4. Stressful and Short-Lived: Managing the dual roles of friend and lover can be confusing, stressful, and often doesn’t last long due to the lack of commitment.
The Cons of Situationships
1. Uncertainty: Constantly wondering where you stand can be exhausting and stressful.
2. Lack of Exclusivity: Your partner can see other people, which might lead to jealousy and insecurity.
3. No Commitment: The absence of a label means either person can walk away easily, leaving no strings attached.
4. Emotional Damage: If emotional investment is unreciprocated, it can be hurtful and create an unbalanced dynamic.
Which One Is Better?
Choosing between a situationship and a friends with benefits relationship depends on what you’re looking for. Some might prefer the open communication and low pressure of a situationship, while others might opt for the clear boundaries and straightforwardness of friends with benefits.
Why Do Guys Like Situationships?
Guys might favor situationships for a few reasons:
1. Low Commitment: There’s no pressure if things don’t work out.
2. Fun Without Boredom: It offers the excitement of a new relationship without everyday routines.
3. Testing Waters: It allows them to get to know someone without worrying about future commitments like marriage or children.
Final Thought
Both friends with benefits and situationships have their advantages and disadvantages. Friends with benefits can be hard to maintain due to the balance between friendship and sexual relationship, while situationships, although lacking commitment, involve an emotional connection that can complicate things. Ultimately, the best choice varies based on individual preferences and what you seek in a relationship.