By Definition, Can a Rebound Relationship Work Out?
By Nina Atwood
Dear Nina: What is the definition of a “rebound relationship”? Is it true they can be unhealthy? I’ve recently started dating someone who is barely divorced. My friends say she’s on the rebound. – David
David: Rebound relationships occur very shortly after the end of a significant love, and sometimes begin before the end. The problem with a rebound is that it doesn’t allow time for the grieving and healing process to be complete.
When this happens, there is emotional confusion. Sometimes, the feelings for the old partner simply transfer to the new one, and that results in the illusion that you’ve found someone totally “different,” when, in fact, you’ve found someone very much like your old love. Often the issues that drove you away from your previous partner are the very ones with which you eventually find yourself grappling in the new relationship.
Rebound relationships serve a purpose: To protect the heart from the devastation of losing someone very important. Like a very big cushion, they protect us from the trauma of the fall that is experienced when a deep connection is abruptly severed. These relationships can be healthy, as long as you remain aware of their purpose and take your time with your new partner. If you are not paying attention, however, a rebound relationship can be unhealthy. Potential problems include:
Expecting a new partner to make up for the shortcomings of the old. “Since my last girlfriend cheated on me, I expect you to give me 100% reassurance of your loyalty 24 hours a day.”
Commitment hunger. “My last boyfriend dated me for three years without making a commitment, so I’m expecting an engagement ring within six months or I’m out of here.”
Chronic fear and anxiety. “After what my ex did to me, I have to constantly check to see that you’re really there for me, even if that drives you crazy.”
Skyrocket relationship. Rebound dating relationships are often too fast-paced, with a false sense of urgency, in order to “make sure” that this one sticks.
The biggest risk of a rebound is that it serves its purpose and then the re-bounder moves on, leaving someone else devastated. If you’re dating someone on the rebound, know that you are in a high risk relationship. Don’t allow the rebounding person to set the pace, as it will be too fast and may leave you in the dust. Take your time, allow the relationship to develop slowly, and take good care of yourself emotionally (i.e., have a good support system). Open, honest, transparent communication is vital every step of the way.
A rebound relationship can work out, as long as you and your partner are able to develop a genuinely loving and trusting bond and maintain good communication each step of the way.
Entry Filed under: Advice for Men,Advice for Women,Communication,Dating,Divorce,Relationships
3 Comments
1. Lisa Ambers | August 21st, 2012 at 1:19 am
I’m extremely impressed with your article. It’s worth reading for and in every sentences here is full of information. And i now learned what rebound relationship means. Thanks Much!
2. penelope | January 30th, 2014 at 2:26 am
I am the “rebound”…I adore this guy. However, I am smart enough, and cautious. I can see that he isn’t emotionally available. And it breaks my heart, to cut him loose. But I know thats what he needs. I have put the brakes on this relationship. Going verrrrry slowly…I am bummed, BECAUSE I adore him….
3. john lee | April 9th, 2014 at 8:38 pm
sometimes the person who has just broken up with someone else ie on the rebound will lie to the person they are dating. i know becos it happened to me. i met this girl and dated for 3 months and when we started dating she told me her last serious relationship ended 3 years ago. the relationship progressed very quickly and she was saying i am the ” right guy for her” ” feels we are very compatible ” ” wished we met earlier”. i fell in love with her and one day she told me she actually ended a relationship of 3 years 3 weeks before we met!! things went downhill rapidly and we broke up leaving me heart broken. my advise is that the relationship is going too fast and the person you are dating is ” responding ” too quickly , snoop around and find out without letting the other person know of course.