The research: Prior research shows couples in LDRs tend to feel less loved, and break up more often, than those in geographically close relationships (GCRs)—while separate studies have shown the exact opposite. So which is it? Researchers from Queen’s University in Canada aimed to find out. They surveyed 474 women and 243 men in LDRs, and 314 women and 111 men in GCRs, measuring everything from their levels of commitment to intimacy. These questions also took note of the kinds of characteristics participants believe promotes a positive or negative relationship, such as face-to-face contact and feeling certain the relationship would last. The results? Those in LDRs were not worse off than those in GCRs; in fact, researchers found that those in LDRs were just as satisfied with their partners regardless of distance. And, no surprise here, the more positively couples viewed their LDRs, the happier they were in their relationships. What it means: If you’re unceratin of your partner, or how the two of you will work through a tough time, it doesn’t matter if you live two or 200 miles away from each other; which is to say distance is not the default reason couples in LDRs break up. Researchers hope these findings sparks a new conversation, perhaps a trend that, with the right attitude, LDRs can be associated with longevity. The bottom line: Don’t judge an LDR by the price of its plane ticket. For those of you still not convinced, read up onthe research that suggests LDRs are actually healthier.
