Why Open Relationships Often Turn Out to Be Dangerous

Open relationships may seem like a light and carefree format, but in practice, they can create serious emotional tension. Psychologist Olga Antipova explains the risks associated with this type of partnership.

Conditions for Comfortable Relationships

For relationships to be harmonious, key components are necessary: trust, openness, a sense of security, and closeness, both physical and emotional. Partners must have the opportunity to discuss difficulties without fear of judgment and be confident that each other's boundaries will not be violated.

What Are Open Relationships

The format of friends with benefits is often chosen by those who have recently ended long-term relationships and are not currently looking for a serious partner. For some people, this format is indeed suitable if they are completely emotionally independent. "Only those who do not need another person to feel calm and confident are truly happy in open relationships," notes Olga.

In practice, however, there are very few cases where both partners are genuinely satisfied with the lack of responsibility towards each other.

Reasons Why Open Relationships Can Be Traumatic

1. Social Circle

Choosing open relationships requires being prepared for emotional tension. A partner may appear in public with someone else, and romantic gestures such as walks, trips to the movies, or flowers will not be exclusive. Mutual friends and acquaintances may discuss this, which adds stress. Regular conversations about health and hygiene also become a necessity.

2. Friendship Ends

If open relationships arise from friendship, returning to previous relations will not be easy. Losing a friend can be painful, so it is better to discuss possible scenarios in advance.

3. Attachment

Physical contact rarely occurs without emotional closeness. One partner may begin to develop stronger feelings, leading to jealousy and negatively affecting mental health.

4. Short Duration of Relationships

Statistics show that open relationships rarely last long—usually three to four months. Breakups can occur due to mutual accusations or the desire for new adventures.

5. Illusions

Sometimes one partner hopes that the lack of commitments will eventually turn into commitments. If open relationships are an attempt to save a broken relationship, this can only increase emotional instability and lead to a loss of internal support.

Source: woman