Long term affairs vs. one night stands
Most affairs can be classified as either one night stands or long term affairs, but what is the difference? One night stands are exactly what the name implies, a very short term relationship based on sexual attraction that does not usually involve any emotional attachment. Millions of people around the world have had a one night stand at some point in their life, whether this happened before or after they were married. Long term affairs are affairs which carry on for weeks, months, or even years in some cases, and these affairs can involve emotional bonds as well as physical attraction. In terms of damaging a marriage long term affairs are usually much worse than one night stands for the injured spouse, because the betrayal is deeper due to the emotional aspects.
For individuals who want an affair to add excitement and adventure a one night stand may be the way to go. All of the sexually transmitted diseases and other safety factors can make a long term affair more appealing for others, because of the lower number of sexual partners involved over time. Both one night stands and long term relationships count as affairs to most people, but those involving one night stands often result in a saved marriage instead of divorce if the couple is willing to work on problems in the marriage. Most women and many men view an emotional affair as a threat, while a sexual escapade can be looked at as being caused by a physical need.
An affair is started for a wide range of reasons, and each affair has special needs and considerations involved. For some individuals a one night stand, or many of them over time, is the best way to add spice and variety to a sex life missing these elements. As marriages progress many spouses take each other for granted, and no longer take as much pride in their appearance or make an effort to stay in shape and look good. This can cause passion to go out of a marriage, and if divorce is not the desired option a one night stand may be the answer. There are no complications and less risk of discovery most of the time. Few marriages end because a one night stand turned into a permanent relationship.
Long term affairs are the right choice for some people, especially if the affair is started because of low self esteem or an unhappy married home life. The saying that the grass is always greener on the other side is true, and many long term affairs fizzle out on their own. In some cases this type of affair can lead to even more dissatisfaction in the marriage, and cause the spouse having an affair to stop feeling affectionate towards their marriage partner. When discovered, a long term affair often leads to divorce if counseling and intense work on the marriage is not done. Deciding whether to have one night stands or long term relationships if you are determined to start an affair is an important decision, one you should consider carefully before making
Filed under: Advice
