Stages
Dating on a Budget: A Reality Check for Gen Z Singles
A recent trend suggests that young people are forgoing dating due to its high costs, but one writer argues that affordable options exist and that love is worth the risk.
The Guardian Relationships
Staff reporter at Pair and Bond, covering Relationships.
Stages
Dating Terms in the Digital Age
A look at the latest dating trends and whether they are genuine or not.
Stages
Blind Date: A Conversation Cut Short by a Lack of Compliments
A recent blind date between Imogen and Andy ended with a mix of laughter and awkward moments, leaving both parties with a lasting impression.
Family & structures
Coercive Control in Relationships: A Hidden Form of Abuse
A therapist shares a case study of a woman who struggled with disordered eating, only to discover that her partner's controlling behavior was the root cause of her issues.
Difficulties
Revival of Intimacy in Marriage: A Couple's Story of Hormone Replacement Therapy
A couple's 33-year marriage has seen a significant improvement in their sex life after one partner started hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Stages
The Moment That Changed Everything: A Couple's Unwavering Commitment
A heartwarming story of a couple's journey, from a chance meeting in Dublin to a lifelong commitment, highlighting the power of love and determination.
Stages
Struggling to Rekindle Intimacy in Marriage
A woman shares her concerns about her husband's lack of effort in pleasing her in bed, despite their efforts to improve their relationship through couples therapy. She wonders if his past experiences as a lover to multiple women have influenced his behavior in their marriage.
Family & structures
Public Displays of Affection Linked to Stronger Relationships, Study Finds
A recent study published in the journal Plos One suggests that public displays of affection are associated with higher-quality romantic relationships, contradicting common societal norms.
Skills
Rediscovering the Joy of Postcard Writing in Middle Age
A writer reflects on how sending and receiving postcards has improved her relationships, attention span, and art skills, and how it has become a meaningful way to connect with others in a digital age.
Skills
The Kissing Recession: A Crisis of Intimacy in Modern Society
A recent survey suggests that a significant number of British adults are kissing less often than they did five years ago, with nearly one in five not having been kissed in over a year. Experts attribute this decline to a combination of factors, including the rise of digital communication, the decline of shared spaces, and shifting gender relations.
Difficulties
Should a girlfriend stop annotating her books?
A couple's differing opinions on book annotations have sparked a debate about personal space and shared reading experiences.
Endings
When Sex Becomes the Glue: How an Older Couple Is Redefining Intimacy
Pam (69) and Mike (71) reflect on how a two-year hiatus from sex has reshaped their relationship, highlighting the emotional challenges and the search for new ways to stay connected as they age.
Endings
The Moment That Changed Everything: A Couple's Journey to Lasting Love
A man recounts the moment he knew he had found his soulmate, and how their relationship has endured for nearly two decades.
Stages
Blind Date Review: A Night of Connection and Disconnection
A recent blind date between Andrew and Gilli at Grand Pacific in Manchester reveals a night of connection and disconnection. Both participants share their thoughts on the evening, highlighting the importance of shared interests and life stages in determining relationship potential.
Stages
Preparing to Re-enter Dating After Years of Abstinence
A reader seeking advice on restarting dating after an eight-year hiatus shares concerns about anxiety, financial insecurity, and cultural differences. Psychotherapist Hannah Jackson-McCamley and advice columnist Annalisa Barbieri offer insights on self-acceptance, managing expectations, and approaching relationships with emotional readiness.