Can a Long-Distance Open Relationship Ever Work?

When it comes to relationships, few topics are as polarizing as long distance and open relationships.

Many couples experience the former. Just as many are curious about the latter, though nowhere near as many dare to attempt it. As contentious as those already are by themselves, imagine how well-received the discussion of a long-distance open relationship will be.

Those thinking about this can already see a crowd in their minds eyes, stunned into silence. How would such a thing work? Can such a thing even work? Who would go for such a difficult arrangement? All of those are valid concerns, which is why we're here to get to the bottom of open relationships conducted over long distances.

How Would It Work?

If an open long distance relationship were to happen, then a hallmark of both kinds of relationships would need to be present: excellent communication skills. There are no ifs or buts around it. Being far apart from one;s partner whilst entertaining other lovers requires more-than-competent levels of communicating.

Can It Even Work?

In theory, it is definitely possible. Separately, there are many, many instances of both long-distance and open relationships thriving despite the fact that they aren't meant for all couples. It would not be too much of a stretch to imagine an open long-distance relationship to work as well.

However, theories can be far removed from reality.

Even without the threat of other lovers, partners already have to deal with many relationship anxieties and fears when they are far apart. The secondary partners may not just be a source of extra jealousy, but their own needs may intrude upon the already-considerable needs of the primary partners.

In addition to that, there are the common concerns that are usually associated with open relationships in general:

• Greater risk of STDs

• Coping with greater time management challenges

• Lapses in communication

Those concerns alone can turn even the most confident couples away from entertaining the notion of being open. When you combine them with great physical distance, then the idea becomes even less appealing. Which leaves us with the next concern . . .

Who Would Choose Such an Arrangement?

Unlike those who opt for open relationships, no couple would choose to be far apart unless necessity dictates it. With the distance between the two individuals increasing, they may decide that it would be best if they did not limit themselves to just each other. As great as monogamous dating is, there are those who go against it for many reasons.

Then, there are those couples who are simply interested in spicing up their love lives, despite already having each other. For example, the person who goes away may have done so to engage in travel dating. Although possible, these instances are outliers, with most preferring to remain exclusive and near one another.

In today's dating landscape, people have more freedom than ever. As such, those who see value in a long-distance open relationship are free to pursue it, but they would be blind not to see the dangers and difficulties involved.