Mia Shields

Situationships, previously known as “friends with benefits,” “no strings attached” or “more than friends,” has become a popular term among younger generations in the past few years. A situationship sums up any non-committal romantic or sexual relationship; it is the gray area between being single and being in a relationship.

“A situationship is what I would describe as what happens when you’re not sure what to label something with the person you’re talking to since you’re not actually dating, but you guys are still exclusive. Personally, I find being in a relationship better because you have real commitment rather than just a ‘could be’ relationship,” junior Gabriella Quiroz said. 

Not needing to commit to a partner might be appealing to some, but for others, being in a situationship is not what they really want. 

“I have found it is often a mutual decision to maintain the relationship we have which is often due to fear of commitment, not only with me but with anyone,” Quiroz said. “In my experience, one of us always leaves and doesn’t fulfill their promise of staying ‘committed’ to the other person.” 

A situationship does not have to be such a toxic thing, they can just be someone you see casually. Whether it be an old fling that is back in town for the weekend or someone you are just not ready to date seriously yet; a situationship can be positive and as simple as it sounds.

However, a situationship can be emotionally draining. As humans, our brains need some sort of clarity. A relationship that is not actually a relationship can confuse both people involved.

On the other hand, a situationship can make you feel free, while still having the freedom of being single and having the connection of a real relationship.

“I would not recommend it due to the emotional anxiety either person might face. If you are just looking for some short thrill in your life, a situationship could fill that desire,” Quiroz said.

Dealing with a situationship can put a strain on relationships in the future. Once it is time for either party to get into a real, labeled relationship, situationship enthusiasts may experience difficulty settling into a new type of serious relationship.

Situationships are just an entanglement without having an actual label. Although they may provide fun for some time, they often lead down a rough path. So, before placing yourself in the position where you have to ask, “So what are we?”, remember what may follow.