Relationships have evolved in many ways over the years. Alongside familiar terms like “friends with benefits” and “situationships,” another dating style is gaining popularity, especially among Gen Z—textationships. If your relationship feels mostly digital, with most of your interactions happening over text, you might be part of this growing trend. Here’s what textationships are, how they work, and what it means for your connection.
What is a Textationship?
A textationship is a type of relationship where most communication takes place over text messages. People in a textationship tend to share their lives, thoughts, and feelings over messages rather than meeting face-to-face or even talking on the phone. This trend appeals to people looking for an easy, low-pressure connection, as texts allow more time to think, reply, and maintain a sense of privacy. Textationships can range from casual, friendly conversations to romantic exchanges, filling the need for connection in a format that’s easy and convenient.
How Textationships Are Growing Among Young People
As messaging apps and social media platforms become integral to our daily communication, text-based connections have also become common. Young adults, especially Gen Z, often feel more comfortable expressing themselves through text. For some, it’s a natural way to build a connection without the pressures of an in-person meeting or a call, which may seem intimidating or too “serious.” Many use text messages to gauge compatibility before deciding if they want to meet in person or develop the relationship further.
Are Textationships the Real Deal?
While texting is convenient, it has its downsides. Relationships that rely mostly on text can miss out on the deeper connections that come from seeing each other in person. Body language, voice tone, and real-time reactions are crucial to understanding emotions and building trust. When a relationship exists only through messages, it can feel surface-level or lack depth, which may leave people wondering if they truly know the other person.
Is It Easy to Get “Trapped” in a Textationship?
With so much convenience and ease, textationships can become comfortable to the point where in-person meetings are rare or even nonexistent. Without realizing it, some people get “trapped” in a routine where all interactions happen over text. This may feel like a relationship, but over time, it might reveal limitations. Text-based relationships can often end just as quickly as they begin, as there’s no deep, personal bond keeping the connection strong.
Signs You’re in a Textationship
- All Communication is Over Text: You rarely talk on the phone or make plans to meet.
- You’re More Comfortable Texting: You find it easier to express your feelings through messages rather than face-to-face.
- Plans Happen Over Text: Any plans or outings are often discussed but rarely acted upon.
- Personal Moments Stay Digital: You share your joys, sorrows, and day-to-day happenings mostly over text.
Balancing Text and Face-to-Face Interactions
While there’s nothing wrong with texting, a balanced relationship should include calls and in-person meetings. Text messages are an excellent way to stay in touch, but they should not replace real-time interactions that bring depth and meaning to a relationship. If you feel comfortable texting but rarely meet or call, try to take steps to meet up, as this will allow you to better understand each other’s feelings and create a stronger, more genuine connection.
Textationships can serve as a stepping stone, but remember that relationships are healthiest when they are well-rounded. Keep an eye on whether you’re maintaining a balance, and ensure your connections grow beyond just a screen.
