Let's Talk Relationships

Amber Brooks

By: Amber Brooks

Editor: Lillian Castro

Posted:

Relationships have incredible upsides, in fact too many to list here. But they can also be a lot of work if we’re being honest. We know the dynamics of romantic partnerships can feel somewhat like a mystery, especially if it’s your first or your first serious one in a while.

So to ease things up, our experts have agreed to provide key insights into navigating the ebbs and flows of relationships, and how they can add value and joy to our lives.

Our expert-backed content provides readers with the advice to approach relationships with intention, effort, and understanding. Whether you’re in a relationship or dating to find one, our experts want to guide you to take healthy steps toward meeting your goals.

We’ll recommend the best dating apps and sites for getting serious and discuss the steps you should take to settle down and commit. Our authors also cover the five love languages, attachment styles, codependency, and more helpful tips, so you can love better and live fuller.

1116 Results

What Our Experts Say:

1.
35% of Americans Would End a Relationship Rather Than Give Up Their Pet — and 22% Would Seriously Consider It
Lynn Cadet

Lynn Cadet

A new dating dealbreaker has entered the mainstream conversation, and it might just be on your list.  Nearly three-fourths (71%) of U.S. households own a pet, making pet owners a clear majority. If you ask a pet owner, most would consider their pets family and maybe even themselves as pet parents. However, some pet lovers are willing to go further in their love for their favorite animals than others, even...

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2.
What Solo Polyamory Looks Like in Practice
Dr. Frankie Bashan

Dr. Frankie Bashan

Clients frequently come to me with questions about polyamory and ethical non-monogamy: how it works, whether it's right for them, how they should approach it, or how to navigate dating non-monogamous people.  Solo polyamory is often a novel concept for my clients, but one that I think is useful and rewarding to learn more about.  Whether you ultimately identify as solo poly or not, it's a great case...

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3.
13 Cohabitation Statistics by Age ([updated_month_year])
Sheena Holt

Sheena Holt

Attitudes toward cohabitation have changed dramatically over the years. Once seen as an unusual taboo — referred to as “living in sin” — cohabitation is now a standard path for adult couples.  It could be a relationship step on the road to marriage, or it could be a relationship goal in its own right. But as anyone with conservative grandparents can tell you, not everyone has completely changed their attitude...

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4.
33% of Daters Stayed in a Relationship They Wanted to Leave — Just to Avoid Losing a Pet
Lynn Cadet

Lynn Cadet

There are several reasons why people stay in unwanted relationships. Some people stay due to fear of being alone, insecurity, or even inconvenience. But another lesser-known reason may be picking up steam: avoiding the loss of a pet.  Yep, you heard that right. For many people, pets are like family. Often, dating can involve not just growing an emotional attachment to a partner but also to their...

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5.
Primary vs Secondary Partners: What the Terms Really Mean
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

Your coworker, Lexi, just moved in with her partner, Joe. You’re at their housewarming party, admiring how in love they are. You fill up your plate with crackers and hummus, and when you return to the table, Lexi is snuggled up against someone else, feeding him fruit.  Lexi sees your look of confusion, smiles, and says, “Have you met Kyle? He’s my secondary partner.” You feel flooded with judgment and...

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6.
14 Marriage vs. Cohabitation Statistics[updated_month_year before=" (" after=")"]
Sheena Holt

Sheena Holt

When it comes to cohabitating before marriage, everyone has a different opinion. Some – particularly younger people – feel like marrying a person you haven’t seen scrub their toilet is bananas. Others take moral issue with living together prior to tying the knot. As a cohabitant living with my (now) fiancé, I certainly have a personal stake in the matter. But I'm more interested in facts than opinions.  These...

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7.
Finding Serious Relationships on Dating Sites (Not Casual Matches)
Dr. Wendy Walsh

Dr. Wendy Walsh

Finding a secure attachment through online dating — especially if you’re looking for a serious relationship — can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But I assure you it’s possible. I know because I met my husband on Bumble. Many people of all genders and sexual orientations know the benefits of thriving within a healthy, long-term, and committed relationship. Many singles are out there looking for...

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8.
7 Green Flags of an Emotionally Available Date
Amie Leadingham

Amie Leadingham

For years, I dated men who could talk a big game. They’d promise me the world with their words, tell me how perfect I was for them, and paint this fairytale picture of our future together.  One ex in particular would describe the life we’d build down to the names of our future pets. And right when things were starting to get serious, I noticed his actions told a completely different story. I was so sick...

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9.
28 Online Dating Success Rate Statistics[updated_month_year before=" (" after=")"]
Sheena Holt

Sheena Holt

Ask anyone who’s actively dating how they meet people, and they’ll probably tell you they’re on the apps. It’s undeniable: online dating is the go-to way to start dating these days.  Sure, some people meet their partners through work, school, or mutual friends, but if you’re setting off with the intention of meeting someone, chances are you’re looking online first. But how often is online dating effort...

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10.
Open Relationships 101: How to Ask Your Partner to Go Poly With You
Dr. Frankie Bashan

Dr. Frankie Bashan

Maybe you've always been interested in ethical nonmonogamy but have never had a chance to try it. Maybe you've become newly intrigued after getting to know more nonmonogamous people. Being exposed to the lifestyle as part of a new friend group or new romantic interest can be exciting…But if you're already in a monogamous relationship, pursuing this interest requires a conversation with your partner about opening...

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11.
5 Signs Your Date Is Emotionally Unavailable
Amie Leadingham

Amie Leadingham

I used to think it was enough to find a partner who was good on paper as long as we had chemistry. Boy, was I wrong.  I kept attracting people who had a great job and good looks, but when it came to emotionally supporting me? They failed miserably.  I remember one time, I was going through a rough patch in life, and just needed a hug and some understanding. When I reached out to my boyfriend at the...

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12.
6 Tips for Introducing Your S.O. to the Family
Brian Rzepczynski

Brian Rzepczynski

Introducing your partner to your family for the first time is a big step in the evolution of your relationship.  For some, it can be an exciting time of integrating a loved one into the family mix, while for others, it can be fraught with stress and anxiety. Will my family like him? Will my boyfriend fit in okay? Will everybody get along? Will my partner be able to tolerate any drama that may come...

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13.
I’ve Read a Lot of Self-Help Books About Love & Relationships  — Here Are My Favorites
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

As part of my job, I hear a lot of pitches about newly released or soon-to-be published books that have catchy titles or make big tantalizing promises like “Win Her Back in 7 Days & Lose 100lbs While You’re At It.” The salesy, likely AI-generated summaries tend to blur together and say the same clichéd things.  But every once in a while, an author really hits the nail on the head and has an earnest...

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14.
How to Handle Your Partner’s Family: Q&A With Dr. Tracy Dalgleish
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

The holiday season is full of joy, love, laughter, and the occasional awkward tension between extended family members.  Sometimes emotions run high (especially if the booze is running freely at a holiday gathering), and you might feel the need to do damage control between your family and your significant other. Or maybe you’re more like me and try to stay far far away from the drama. I’ve seen spouses get...

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15.
5 Clear Signs You’re Being Breadcrumbed (Plus How to Stop It)
Amie Leadingham

Amie Leadingham

I spent years dating commitment-phobe types who constantly kept me guessing about where I stood with them. One minute they'd make me feel like I was on top of the world and we were headed to the marriage altar... the next, I felt like I'd been forgotten.  You know that push-and-pull behavior? That's breadcrumbing. It's one of the most soul-crushing games someone can play with your heart. Before I became a...

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16.
4 Reasons Why Studying Relationships is Important
Hunt Ethridge

Hunt Ethridge

Relationships, romantic and otherwise, can sometimes seem to be magical or kismet, or they “just happen!” Just like this old song says, “Some enchanted evening/ When you find your true love./ When you feel her call you across a crowded room,/ Then fly to her side/And make her your own.” However, love is actually deeply seated in science. The main drive in an animal’s (and humans are animals) mind is...

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17.
What Is Cuffing Season? How to Make the Most of It
Amie Leadingham

Amie Leadingham

Fall is here. The leaves are changing. The weather is getting colder and colder. Those cozy nights near the fireplace are more and more tempting. The only thing missing is that special someone to cuddle up with.  This time of year, that urge to couple up hits HARD. Hello, cuffing season! Cuffing Season Is the Time of Year When Many Singles Wish They Weren't Single Cuffing season is a period that runs...

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18.
Can Introverts and Extroverts Live Happily Ever After? What Dating Experts Say
Jamie Ballard

Jamie Ballard

I've self-identified as an introvert ever since I learned what the word meant. Contrary to popular belief, introverts aren't necessarily anti-social. I actually love spending time with family, friends, and even strangers occasionally, but after a while, I definitely need time alone to recharge -- ideally on my couch with an episode of “Vanderpump Rules” and a collection of snacks. Of course, as luck would...

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19.
Finding Love Tay Tay’s Way: 5 Lessons Inspired by the Celebrity Couple
Dr. Wendy Walsh

Dr. Wendy Walsh

I truly believe that pop star Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce have become America’s royal couple. They are both incredibly famous, and their love story feels so authentic. Frankly, America is enamored with this pair. A cynical observer may assume their relationship is easy because fewer problems come with fame and fortune. But I beg to differ. These lovebirds may not have problems like us commoners — such...

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20.
5 Reasons Women Break Up With Men
Lauren Sanders

Lauren Sanders

Women are in tune with their thoughts and emotions. Once they’ve made the decision to break with a man, it’s typically very well thought out.  Even if the breakup seems sudden or unexpected on the surface, there are always reasons behind the decision to move on. In my experience, it usually has to do with being unhappy and wanting better for themselves or for their children. Here are the most common...

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21.
5 Questions to Ask Before You Commit to Someone
Amie Leadingham

Amie Leadingham

I know how exciting it can be when you finally meet someone who is physically attractive and mentally stimulating. It can feel like you've won the jackpot, but before you rush into a committed relationship with someone you barely know, my advice is to slow down. Make a conscious commitment. As a dating coach, I’ve seen many singles jump at the chance to fill their relationship void, only to find out the person...

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22.
More Than Music: LGBTQ+ Attendees Are More Likely to Find Love at Festivals Than Other Groups
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

Music festivals may have a reputation for being hedonistic getaways. But the tide seems to be turning on this stereotype, as festivals become intentional dating destinations for underrepresented communities.  In fact, these groups are actively challenging the festival hookup trope by seeking strong social and romantic engagement on their own cultural terms.  With festival season in full swing,...

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23.
1 in 3 Daters Admit to Loyalty Testing Partners on Social Media — But Is It Worth It?
Lynn Cadet

Lynn Cadet

Trust is at the heart of every relationship. Though it may look different to different people, it’s fair to say, once trust is breached, most partnerships are never the same.  Broken trust can lead to insecurity, resentment, suspicion, and the ultimate relationship death sentence: breakups. Mistrust can emerge for a myriad of reasons, typically due to another’s actions or a sudden revelation.  But...

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24.
#CouplesGoals: 30% of Americans Rank Barack and Michelle Obama as Their #1 Couple
Lynn Cadet

Lynn Cadet

Despite reports of distance and divorce, the Obamas appear to be going as strong as ever, with both Barack and Michelle recently dispelling rumors about tension in their marriage.  But hard times aren’t lost on the couple, having gone through two heavily publicized terms in the White House that often centered around their marriage. Yet their relationship has stood the test of time — and has remained so in...

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25.
Defining Personal Growth: How It Fosters Relationship Success
Ashayla Blakely

Ashayla Blakely

Dating is a mixture of trial and error. While on a date, it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. But understanding those emotions is key to moving forward on your dating journey.  A few years ago, my friend shared that she was feeling a sense of unease with her dates, and she couldn’t put it into words. Been there, done that! While the guys she was meeting were kind, sweet, and down to earth, there was still...

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26.
What Is Effective Communication for Relationships?
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

When it comes to relationships, communication is crucial. Think about it this way: You can’t have a relationship with another person without ever communicating with them in some way.  It helps if you literally speak the same language. My aunt was raised speaking Japanese while my uncle grew up speaking Spanish. When they met in their 20s, English was a second language for both of them, but it became their...

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27.
New Survey Says 21% of Americans Want Weekly Dates
Jamie Ballard

Jamie Ballard

If you’re in a relationship, it can be easy to let date night fall by the wayside. Life is busy and stressful (even more so if you have children), so making the time to date your partner just isn’t always in the cards. However, a new survey on dating from YouGov reveals that many Americans want to go on dates more frequently than they actually do.  The data provides some insights about the date-night...

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28.
Matchmakers Predict Heartbreak on “Love Is Blind”
Sheena Holt

Sheena Holt

While singles everywhere know just how rough the dating scene can be, season 8 of “Love Is Blind” suggests that a dramatic overhaul of dating norms might not be all sunshine and rainbows. “Love Is Blind” couples are facing a boatload of issues within their relationships, from classic concerns about exes to financial differences.  The couples still have a ways to go before the altar, and any relationship...

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29.
Survey: 59% of People in a Relationship Say Their Routines Change When Their Partners Aren’t Around
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

Every couple who lives together has periods of time when one is home while the other travels. Whether it’s holidays, work trips, or vacations with friends, these periods of separation create extra solo time. And we wondered: Do people behave differently when their partners are away? We surveyed over 1,000 Americans in long-term relationships about how their routines, behaviors, and moods change when their partner...

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30.
What Is the Sidewalk Rule? And Why Is It Controversial?
Dr. Wendy Walsh

Dr. Wendy Walsh

Something old is new again. The old-fashioned “sidewalk rule” is still widely practiced around the world, even though the conditions that necessitated it are long gone.   The sidewalk rule dictates a social expectation that when a heterosexual couple walks together on a sidewalk, the man should walk on the outside near the traffic, and the woman should walk on the inside near the buildings.  This...

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Amber Brooks

By: Amber Brooks

Editor-in-Chief

Amber Brooks is the Editor-in-Chief at DatingAdvice.com. When she was growing up, her family teased her for being "boy crazy," but she preferred to think of herself as a budding dating and relationship expert. As an English major at the University of Florida, Amber honed her communication skills to write clearly, knowledgeably, and passionately about a variety of subjects. Now with over 1,800 lifestyle articles to her name, Amber brings her tireless wit and relatable experiences to DatingAdvice.com. She has been quoted by the Washington Times, Cosmopolitan, The New York Post, and AskMen, among others.

See Amber's full bio »

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