Recognizing Situationship Red Flags: A Guide to Healthier Connections

What could be the signs to tell indicate your relationship may be unhealthy? Many people are caught in undefined romantic relationships and are often unsure if they're actually dating or just close friends. Knowing the signs of a situational relationship could help you stay focused and determine what you really would like to do.

What Exactly Is a Situationship?

A situationship is one that takes place in space, more than friendship but not necessarily dating. It's marked by ambiguity and sometimes a bit comfortable, but frequently confusing. According to experts on relationships quoted by healthy relationships columnists, this unclear status can be a factor in the everyday leaving one or both partners confused about the value of their time or emotional investment.

Although this undefined phase has its advantages (think ease, no-pressure meetings and no labels) but it can also turn into a toxic situation quickly when expectations and communication aren't clearly defined. This is especially true when the partners have different expectations from their relationship.

Lack of Communication and Consistency

Every relationship requires a rhythm. If communication is inconsistent or unclear is a classic red flag. The tone changes from hot one day to cold the next then cool the next. It's hard to tell if we building something or just tripping over waters?

The ability to be consistent in your actions is the element of good relationships. If your partner is only checking in when they feel like it or you do not know what the next day will bring your relationship could be out of balance. A moment in time: Have you ever stared at your phone wondering whether the "seen" message means anything? That's the signal.

"If communication wavers and consistency disappears, you're left standing on emotional quicksand--never sure where you'll land."

Types of Situations and Major Red Flags

The "Casual, But Complicated" Connection

Friendships can be enjoyable and liberating, but they can also lead to apathy when boundaries aren't defined. The absence of talks about the future, or staying clear of emotional subjects is a big sign and can be a sign of neglect, as is putting all your time in closed doors (and not only because you're both fond of game of a lifetime).

The Always Undefined Arrangement

Are you living in a "gray area" long-term? If a person avoids commitments or labels, avoids discussing the future, or you are feeling a constant power imbalance, your emotional demands are not met. It's like wearing an outfit that doesn't fit. Adjustments are made but the comfort isn't there.

Unbalanced Power Dynamics

A subtle, but important warning sign in a relationship occurs when one person always wins or is in charge of the pace. It is a matter of convenience and leave the other partner in the dark. Respect for each other should be the foundation of both people. Without it, the bond falls apart.

Be on the lookout for the signs of manipulation or a disregard for personal boundaries. Your emotional comfort can be quickly eroded when one person is in a breach leaving you feeling uneasy or unwelcome. This is the perfect time to evaluate whether your needs being respected?

Emotional Unavailability and the Disappearing Act

Sometimes, people enter situationships half-heartedly--craving connection but wary of true intimacy. If conversations don't get beyond the surface or your feelings are greeted by avoidance, then emotional insanity is probably lurking.

The distancing could be detrimental especially when your personal feelings are growing. The desire to "fix" an emotionally unavailable partner is intense however, genuine love requires a mutual investment. Otherwise, you're just laying hopes on a foundation that isn't sustainable.

Lack of Commitment and Future Talk

Are you wishing for plans that don't occur? If the future goals aren't discussed and the relationship continues to drift without direction, it's an indication that your relationship isn't moving forward. In healthy relationships conversations about goals and future steps are a natural flow.

If your partner doesn't participate in these discussions or appears to be aloof It could be time to ask yourself: Does this relationship align with your expectations? Be aware that clarity -- like soft, customized details make traveling feel comfortable and secure.

Disregard for Boundaries and Personal Needs

Boundaries are the basis of every connection. If they're not acknowledged or crossed frequently emotional tension is the result. A respectful relationship lets both people speak out their needs in a candid manner, and tailor the space and affection to suit the needs of both partners.

Being aware of your own comfort zones will help avoid anxiety and maintain emotional peace, which is one of the main characteristics of functional style when it comes to relationships. If your boundaries are not respected It's never a bad idea to take a step back and re-center.

Listening to Yourself and Moving Forward

SITUATIONSHIP red flags don't need to be a sign of disaster. They're just a way to indicate, not a sentence. If you can identify when communication is weak or emotional commitment wane or respect wane you'll give yourself the chance to find stronger, more supportive relationships. Sometimes, the most appropriate outfit is to move on--when it suits your life the best.