The Evolution of Modern Relationships: Understanding the shift from Tradition to Uncertainty

Before some 10 to 15 years ago there were only two kinds of relationships that predominantly existed. But when we consider these days, we can hear so many terms regarding the relationship. Other than love and marriage there exists situationship, live-in relationship, open relationship, benching, breadcrumbing, ghosting, orbiting, love bombing, zombieing etc.

On one hand, the relationship has taken so many forms these days and the youngsters are entering into the relationship with the constant fear of uncertainty now-a-days. On the other hand, people who are married for years seeking divorce and research says there is a lot of increase in grey divorce as well.

Whereas in a completely different context, suicides because of dowry, physical abuse and verbal abuse are also getting increased. From this, it is evident that there is a lot of confusion and hindrance in maintaining a relationship. There is a lack of knowledge in society about when to voice out and when to adjust yourself to the environment. Let’s discuss one by one about the relationship and how to keep the boundaries.

The reason behind changes and raise in different kinds of romantic relationships

Change in social norms

The society is changing the mindset from there is only a single path to lead a relationship i.e. marriage to increasingly accepting the non-traditional relationships like live-in, co-parenting without marriage and so on. These acceptances are mostly from the peer group. As youngsters, the acknowledgment of peers is the boost and everything that older people advise about has become cringe these days.

Rise in individualism

We people are living in a collectivistic culture, where we concentrate and think as a group. We involve our families in the decisions we make. When we ought to do something we think for the goodness of other members in the family. And this collectivistic culture is now evolving into individualistic culture. We started to think about putting ourselves before others. People now started prioritizing personal growth, career and self-discovery. 

Dating apps

Almost every youngster has access to the internet and spending time on dating apps makes them understand that there are so many options, which may be overwhelming for an individual. When an individual is confronted with so many options there is a high probability of choosing the wrong option because of decision fatigue. This leads to the situations that give rise to ghosting, breadcrumbing and benching.

Fear of commitment 

Witnessing high rates of divorce and failed marriages may give a sense of hopelessness in relationships. Most children of couples who are divorced will become hesitant to marry. And even people who have witnessed people suffering in married life may develop the fear of commitment.

Desire for emotional and physical fulfilment

Contemporary dating culture separates the emotional connection and physical intimacy into two distinct entities thereby leading to open relationships, friends with benefits and stuff.

Globalization & Cultural exchange

Globalization happens so quickly because of the exposure to various media platforms and thus introducing people to the different cultures being followed worldwide which was not accepted locally.