Open long distance relationships are a relatively new arrangement in the realm of living apart together lovers but the issues surrounding them have been around for a long time. Some of the most common uncertainties of a long distance relationship involve the lack of physical contact and the temptation to be intimate with another person other than your partner. The desire to have physical needs met for both long distance partners has paved the way for many LDR couples to consider dating others while apart.

What do open long distance relationships involve? There are two main kinds of open LDRs, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

• The temporary-fix open LDR
  These kinds of open long distance relationships are usually borne out of the desire to address the need to be with someone physically, whether it involves sex or not. The couple in the relationship agrees that they can date other people, but not fall in love or be emotionally involved with them. Many LDR couples regard this as beneficial because they have jurisdiction over each others’ feelings even if they have little to no control over their physical interactions. The result of temporary fixes for open long distance relationships cannot be predicted, though. Giving each other consent to being physically intimate with other people opens the doors to possibilities of developing feelings for them instead. There is also the risk of contracting sexually transmissible diseases especially in the case of one-night stands. Openness and effective communication are musts for this type of open LDR set-up to work.
• The polyamorous LDR 
  

  Open long distance relationships work for some couples.

  Polyamory is a relationship status that goes beyond the realm of a long distance relationship. It revolves around the concept of multiple committed relationships, be they physical or emotional. It entails more commitment than a casual hook-up, but it is a notion that many couples cannot entertain. Polyamory is oftentimes a long-term relationship set-up that partners agree to get into, and is usually not temporary. As an option for open long distance relationships, polyamorous couples are expected to communicate effectively and be completely transparent so no jealousy, insecurities, or other negative emotions can arise. Constant and effective communication is also a must so problems can be met head-on and solved straightaway. Also, a frequent review if your goals as a couple are being met should be in order.

Not being able to check on your significant other as often as in a same-city relationship can add difficulties to an already complicated situation. In the case of open long distance relationships, compromise and a deep maturity are expected to make them work. (Although some couples might characterize this more as a lack of commitment to each other.) Being open to dating other people has its unique pros and cons. LDR couples need to weigh them very carefully before embarking on a complicated relationship set-up that could either make or break them.

Copyright & copy; 2011 by Laura Ramirez. All rights reserved.

What is your opinion of open long distance relationships? Have you tried one? Are you in one now? Share your story by clicking on the comments link below the title of the article. Also, please share this article via the social bookmark links below.

No related posts.