The Rebound Relationships
Or why some people jump into a new relationship after a breakup
I have a friend who broke up with her boyfriend of five years. Then she found a rebound guy. Their rebound relationship lasted about six months.
What is a rebound relationship?
Researchers define it as: “A relationship that is initiated shortly after a romantic breakup - before the feelings about the former relationship have been resolved.”
In other words, it substitutes your previous relationship with one that is not really healthy nor particularly romantic.
Where’s the catch?
It’s superficial. It creates an illusionary notion of having feelings for somebody based on a particular feeling or need.
For example, a rebound relationship can be primarily based on sex and it can be used to satisfy a certain need.
In other cases, it can be defined by a strong need for attention, emotional dependency, fear of rejection, abandonment, and loneliness.
Why do people rebound?
People who seek rebound relationships do so to fill out something that is missing, or out of fear. As such they are obsessed with that one thing: seeking attention or approval, the need for physical contact, need to control everything.
I can’t speak for everyone, but my friend’s rebound relationship lasted for six months. It was just sex. My friend was embarrassed to show her rebound guy to her friends. She rarely spoke of him. He was just that. A rebound guy.
Some relationships might last longer. Months, years, who knows. Some even turn to marriages. But the majority almost always end with a breakup.
Can rebounds turn into something more?
I believe they can. If, however, the person who initiated the rebound relationship is willing to invest more in said relationship, and be more emotionally supportive as opposed to do things for their own benefit. Include your partner in everything you do. Introduce them to your friends and family. Meet their relatives. Be there for them at their lowest moments.
Relationship problems? Let’s talk.
Cheers,
Christian
