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A longitudinal study of friends with benefits relationships |
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| Authors: | Laura V. Machia Morgan L. Proulx Michael Ioerger Justin J. Lehmiller |
| Affiliation: | 1. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8725-1395;2. Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York;3. Laura V. Machia, Syracuse University, 432 Huntington Hall, Syracuse, NY 13244.;4. Email:;5. The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana |
| Abstract: | Friends with benefits relationships (FWBRs) uniquely combine friendship with sexual activity but differ from romantic relationships in that they may be less likely to be exclusive or long lasting. A longitudinal analysis of the trajectory of FWBRs is presented, in which participants in FWBRs at Time 1 reported on their relationship outcomes at Time 2 (N = 192). Results demonstrated that a plurality of FWBRs transitioned into having no relationship of any kind at Time 2 (31%). Those who wanted their FWBR to transition into a friendship typically obtained that outcome (59%), whereas those who wanted to transition into a romantic relationship did not (15%). Time 2 relationship status predictors and further implications of FWBR trajectories are discussed. |
| Keywords: | commitment sexuality trajectories |