Let's start by saying that the idea that men and women cannot be friends is antiquated.
But it’s also not that simple.
Take a step back with us for a sec.
Opposite-sex friendships haven’t always been a modern concept. It’s only become more of a norm in the last 40 years.
The increasing interaction that men and women have had in professional and social arenas, and possibly also a general shift in Culture have been huge contributors.
It is no surprise that compared to other generations, the occurrence of opposite-sex relationships is most common among millennials and least common among boomers.
In some ways, some of us see opposite-sex friendships the same as same-sex friendships. We initiate them for the same reasons like shared interests, companionship, good times etc.
But are these the only ‘coincidental’ ’reasons?
Are there any other reasons and motives why we form and maintain opposite-sex friendships?
And are our motives always what we think they are?
Studies have shown that men and women have different ideas of what it means to be “just friends” and these different views contribute to potential trouble.
Many of us think we’re highly capable of being “just friends” with members of the opposite sex, but the opportunity for “romance” is often lurking just around the corner, waiting to pounce at the most inopportune moment.
Two questions we’ll leave you with are:
How do you manage physical attraction in opposite-sex friendships?
What are some of your motives for maintaining opposite-sex friends while in romantic relationships?