As internet dating becomes more and more prevalent, as many as one-third of married couples today are meeting online. A new study, however, reveals that marriages that begin online may be less stable. Researchers at Michigan State University and Stanford University found that couples who meet online are more likely to date than get married, and many who do get married are divorced within two years. The study also reveals that online marriages are twice as likely to end in divorce as offline marriages.
There are a number of differences between relationships that begin online and offline that may account for this disparity. Relationships are built on trust, and it may be more difficult to form a trusting bond with someone you haven’t met in person. These types of bonds are formed by spending time together and learning how you interact with each other. When two individuals are limited to communicating online, it is difficult to really get to know someone as a whole person.
Emotional and Physical Intimacy is Difficult to Achieve Online
Intimacy is also vital in the success of a relationship. Couples have to get to know each other physically as well as emotionally to have a successful romantic relationship. Talking online keeps a certain amount of distance between partners, who can simply close their screens and go about their business when the conversation is over. You can learn a lot of facts about a person online, which may allow couples to feel a false sense of intimacy. When couples do meet in person, they often rush into a sexual relationship, which can be risky without the solid foundation of friendship.
The best way to sustain a relationship after meeting online is to be involved in each other’s lives. Talk often, and at different times, and make sure you are on the same page about where the relationship is going. Get to know a person’s friends and family and see how they handle those relationships. Give the relationship time to develop before becoming sexually intimate. It is easy to get wrapped up in a new relationship, but do not forget that you are online – make sure the person is who they say they are, and be wary of anyone asking for money, passwords, or photos.
In order for a relationship to succeed, partners need to feel secure and have confidence in their rapport. This comes with a deepening sense of trust and compatibility, which cannot be achieved online. Online dating can be a great way to meet someone, but if you do not give the relationship time to develop offline, it is not likely to succeed.
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Baltimore divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones and Miles, LLC have been helping couples through the divorce process for over 30 years. Our knowledgeable, compassionate legal team understands that every family is different, and we are committed to finding the resolution that works for you. With offices located in Hunt Valley, Maryland we help families throughout Maryland, including those in Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County and Howard County as well as those in Towson, Bel Air, Columbia, Westminster and Essex. Call us today at 443-589-0150 or contact us online for a free consultation with a qualified divorce attorney.
