Episode 1: Are Situationships Ruining Modern Love
In this episode we explore why situationships have become so common in the digital dating era. Many people today are not single, not committed, but stuck in the unclear space in between. We look at this from psychology, sociology, anthropology, philosophy and relationship science.
Situationships may feel flexible, low pressure and convenient. But on a deeper level they often create emotional confusion. Attachment theory shows that uncertainty activates stress and can damage trust development. Biology reminds us that oxytocin creates emotional bonding even when someone claims the connection is casual. Sociology shows how social media rewards attention without commitment, shaping behaviour more than people realise. Relationship research confirms that unclear boundaries lead to lower long term satisfaction and higher emotional exhaustion.
We speak about how and why these relationships form, why many people settle for the in-between instead of risking a clear yes or no, how patterns of abandonment from the past can make chaos feel familiar, and why emotional safety matters more than excitement.
By the end of this episode you will understand why situationships might be entertaining in the moment but draining over time. We finish with three practical guidance points for protecting your emotional health and a reflection question to help you honour your real needs.
Welcome to the first episode of Love Science Today.