A new study reveals distance really does make the heart grow fonder.
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder but everyone that's ever
been in a long-term relationship knows it's tough. From the loneliness
to the financial strain, distance causes many couples to call it quits — and some won't even attempt it.
But maybe they should: A new
study reveals that contrary to popular belief, LDRs aren't always doomed.
In the study by Queens University, researchers found that young, unmarried people in long-distance relationships
do not report lower relationship quaity than those in geographically
close relationships. According to psychologist Emma Dargie, who led the
study, couples who live far apart often "report better functioning in a
number of areas."
The study featured 474 females and 243 males in long-distance
relationships, and 314 females and 111 males who lived near their
significant others.
Among people in long-distance relationships, "the further apart the
couple was, the better they were doing with respect to satisfaction, intimacy and communication," said Dargie.
So what are the benefits long-distance couples report?
1. Better Communication
Say what? A Cornell University study published earlier this year in the
Journal of Communication,
couples in long-distance relationships contacted each other about three
or four times a day. This constant contact led to stronger bonds
between the partners who lived far apart, compared to couples in the
same location. Those daily Skype dates can make all the difference.
2. More Meaningful Interactions
That same study also reported that the interactions are more meaningful
between partners in long-distance relationships. Communication between
partners in a long-distance relationship are more likely to evoke deeper
thoughts and feelings than couples who see each other daily, with each
person revealing more about himself or herself. Technology also plays a
role in this deepen interaction, as Skype and FaceTime now allows for
face-to-face communication.
3. Distance Fuels Sexual Desire
The long distance between a couple also tends to fuel sexual desire.
Even if you are not in a long-distance relationship, creating a sense of
space can definitely add some sparks to the relationship, preventing
your daily routine from becoming montonous. According to Kristen P.
Marks, director of the Sexual Health
Promotion Lab, "long-distance relationships are a bit easier, at least
for desire, perceived satisfaction, and not having to deal with
day-to-day life." Sure, you miss your partner when they are gone, but
that same ache can fuel passion in the relationship. And come on, who
doesn't want that?
4. You Appreciate Your Partner A Little More
When you're in a relationship with someone who lives far away, you tend
to make more time for them when they are near. This means that rather
than the mundane, day-to-day routine getting in the way, such as paying
bills or household chores, you focus on each other and the good times.
Plus, with them being miles away, you are reminded how important they
are and won't take them for granted.
5. Long-Distance Couples Are More Committed To Each Other
Long-distance couples are more accepting of their partners' behaviors
and felt like they were getting closer instead of just sharing
information. Even though 30 percent of long-distance couples only got to
see each other in person one to three times a month, they felt more
committed to each other. When you are dealing with the lonely nights and
frequent weekend getaways that come with a long-distance relationship,
you're determined to make it work so all the hard times were worth it.
