Everyone has that one friend who neverstays singlefor long.
In fact, as Kinsey-certified sexologistDr.
Tara Suwinyattichaipornargues, the pattern can indicate challenges in forming healthy, stable relationships.
Photographed by Carlotta Moye
But what, exactly, is serial monogamy?
And what should you do if you suspect that you might be a serial monogamist?
Heres what to know.
What is serial monogamy?
Here are other common signs:
Is serial monogamy bad?
Serial monogamy isnt always a sign that something is wrongbut it can definitely be a red flag.
There is nothing wrong with that.
Time alone is also essential fortruly moving on.
As psychotherapistKen Fierhellersays, its not necessarily bad to enjoy having a monogamous partner.
The ability to be single happily is important.
Causes of serial monogamy
All of us long for connection, intimacy, and love.
The initial romantic phase can be intoxicating; we are focused on all of our partners positive traits.
As the shine fades it can lead to feelings of disappointment and frustration.
Its usually at this pointwhen things get realthat a serial monogamist cuts and runs.
A lot of serial monogamists are avoiding some emotional heavy-lifting, sex therapistEmily Maysays.
How to break the cycle of serial monogamy
The good news?
Serial monogamists can definitely finddeep, lasting loveit just takes introspection and self-work.
Then, they must consider if their patterns are actually sabotaging their chances of happiness.
Recognizing the pattern is half the battle, May says.
Next, the best thing to do is to stop dating completely.
I tell my clients to really sit with the discomfort of being single.
Spend time figuring out what you actually want from a relationship that isnt just about avoiding loneliness.
Therapyhelps a lot here, especially when it comes to recognizing patterns and dealing with underlying emotional fears.
Learning to be emotionally independent is a huge step.
When a recovering serial monogamist is ready to date again, the next step is to take it slow.
Like,reallyslow, May says.
No need to plan a future after date three.
Self-sabotage, on the other hand, isnt so sweetespecially when it leaves behind a string of broken hearts.
