Plus, how to determine if this type of partnership is right for you. The world of modern, informal dating is extremely complicated. Between hanging out, hooking up, and situationships, there are so many terms used in the lexicon of casual partnerships that it can be hard to know what you want and where you stand with a potential love interest.
This especially holds true for "no strings attached" relationships, as many individuals struggle to understand the fundamentals of this type of connectionโand what it actually means. There usually isn't even an expectation of friendship in these situations," explains licensed marriage and family therapist Bree Jenkins.
But as with all relationships, there are more nuances to this type of connection than just casual sex. That's why we turned to the experts to help us unravel the ins and outs of this dating style. Ahead, here's exactly what a "no strings attached" relationship means, the pros and cons associated with embarking on one, and expert-approved tips to help you decide if this is the right path for you.
Meet the Expert. A "no strings attached" relationship is one in which there are no special conditions or restrictions for emotional or physical fidelity or support. The idea behind an NSA relationship is that two individuals can engage in sexual activities, with no rules around dating other people, how often they see one another, or long-term commitments.
While some people in "no strings attached" connections also conventionally "date"โmeaning, they will spend time together, go to dinner, or see a movie on a weekendโthese activities tend not to be the primary focus of the partnership. Generally speaking, this arrangement works best when you're not actively looking for a relationship but are interested in the physical aspects of partnership: sex. If you have a strong social circle, find your personal and work life both fulfilling and busy, and have a happy family life, you might be less inclined to find a long-term partner and more inclined to connect with someone on a fun, physical level only.
