Modern Dating: Understanding Different Types of Relationships and Situationships

Different relationship types from Friendship to Situationship to Marriage

Modern Dating in today’s world doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all label. Gone are the days when every relationship was heading toward marriage — modern love comes in all shapes and styles, and it’s perfectly okay to define your own version of “together.”

Whether you're just starting out or trying to define what this even is, here’s a breakdown of the most common types of relationships people are navigating in 2025 — including the mysterious situationship. This modern dating term is not as complex as you might think.

Modern Dating: Understanding Different Types of Relationships and Situationships

1. The Committed Relationship

This is what many think of as the “traditional” relationship: exclusive, emotionally invested, and long-term. Both people have agreed to be partners and are typically moving toward shared life goals — whether that’s living together, marriage, or just building a future side-by-side.

✅ Clear boundaries✅ Defined commitment✅ Often includes long-term planning

2. The Casual Relationship

A casual relationship includes emotional and/or physical connection, but without the pressure of commitment or long-term expectations. It’s typically about enjoying each other’s company in the moment.

✅ Open and low-pressure✅ Great communication needed❌ Often not built for the long haul

3. The Situationship

Ah, the infamous situationship. It’s more than friends with benefits, but not quite a committed relationship. There’s often emotional intimacy, time spent together, and physical connection — but no clear labels.

You might:

• Act like a couple

• Feel like a couple

• But have zero commitment or clarity

👉 Why it’s tricky: It can feel good… until one person wants more and the other doesn’t. Situationships work best when both people are truly on the same page.

4. Friends With Benefits (FWB)

FWB is a friendship that includes physical intimacy without romantic attachment. It’s straightforward in theory — but can get complicated if feelings creep in.

✅ Honest boundaries are essential✅ Works best when both parties stay emotionally neutral❌ Often leads to confusion if communication slips

5. Long-Distance Relationship (LDR)

A committed romantic relationship between people who live in different cities (or countries). Thanks to tech, LDRs are more doable than ever — but they still take serious trust and effort.

✅ Regular communication is key✅ Planning visits keeps the bond alive❌ Emotional strain can build if long-distance becomes indefinite

6. Open Relationship / Ethical Non-Monogamy

This type involves a primary connection, but with the mutual agreement to explore relationships (physical or romantic) with others. It requires very strong communication, honesty, and trust.

✅ Everyone involved must consent and know the rules✅ Can work beautifully for the right personalities❌ Not for those who get easily jealous or insecure

7. The On-Again, Off-Again Relationship

You’ve probably known (or been in) one of these. It’s the rollercoaster dynamic of constantly breaking up and making up. There's history, chemistry… and often unresolved issues.

✅ Deep familiarity✅ Can work with therapy and effort❌ Often emotionally draining and unstable

8. The “Talking Stage”

You're not dating. You’re not “just friends.” You’re in that awkward pre-relationship space where you're texting, flirting, and maybe even going out — but nothing’s official.

This stage can be fun... or frustrating.

👉 Top tip: If the talking stage drags out with no direction, ask where it’s going — or move on.

So... Which One Are You In?

There’s no wrong answer — just what feels right for you. The most important part is that you and the person you’re seeing both know what kind of relationship you’re in and are on the same page.

📌 Define it. Communicate it. Respect it. That’s the real secret to winning in modern love.

Need help navigating today’s dating scene? Join one of our face-to-face Speed Dating nights in Birmingham — where real sparks fly and games get left at the door.

🎟️ Book your next event now and meet singles who are ready to connect!

We hope you enjoyed our blog on Modern Dating: Understanding Different Types of Relationships. For more tips and tricks, check out more Birmingham Speed Dating blogs here.