Living apart together relationships
Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
LAT Relationships: Exploring the Emerging Trend of Living Apart Together
In recent years, the concept of "living apart together" (LAT) relationships has garnered increasing attention from researchers and couples alike.
This phenomenon, characterized by married partners choosing to maintain separate residences while remaining committed to each other, offers a unique perspective on modern intimate relationships.
The Evolution of Intimacy:
Ernest W. Burgess, a pioneer in the study of urbanization and family dynamics, predicted in 1926 that societal shifts would lead to increased individualism within relationships. Today, his foresight is evident as couples across the globe embrace diverse living arrangements that prioritize personal autonomy alongside emotional connection.
Understanding LAT Relationships:
Living apart together allows couples to enjoy the benefits of marriage while preserving independence and personal space. Research indicates that LAT couples often cite advantages such as:
Securing independence without sacrificing emotional support
Having time for personal interests and friendships
Minimizing conflicts and petty irritations compared to cohabitation
Reducing the impact of personal differences and gender roles
The Dynamics of LAT Relationships:
While LAT couples maintain separate households, their social circles commonly perceive them as committed partners. Clear communication and established boundaries are crucial for navigating this non-traditional arrangement, ensuring mutual understanding and satisfaction.
Advantages and Challenges:
LAT relationships balance individual needs and relationship dynamics, challenging conventional notions of co-dependency. However, they also present challenges such as managing separate finances, maintaining emotional connections, and addressing trust issues.
Empowering Women in LAT Relationships:
Research suggests that older women in LAT relationships experience a heightened sense of agency and autonomy. By establishing boundaries and maintaining separate homes, they can navigate societal norms and prioritize their personal growth and fulfillment.
Final thoughts
As LAT relationships gain traction, there is a growing need for recognition and legal protections to support this evolving family dynamic. While cultural perceptions may vary, the benefits of LAT relationships transcend geographical boundaries, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection and effective communication.
LAT relationships represent a modern approach to intimacy, offering couples the freedom to redefine traditional norms while maintaining commitment and connection. By embracing diversity and fostering understanding, society can support the flourishing of relationships in all their forms.
For more insights into LAT relationships and navigating modern intimacy, explore our resources and stay informed about this evolving trend.
RESEARCH:
Aart C. Liefbroer; Anne-Rigt Poortman; Judith Seltzer (2015). "Why do intimate partners live apart? Evidence on LAT relationships across Europe". Demographic Research. 32: 251–286. doi:10.4054/DemRes.2015.32.8. PMC 4465270. PMID 26085812.
Benson, J. J. (2013). From living apart, to living-apart-together: Older adults developing a preference for LAT (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from https://mospace.umsystem.edu/ xmlui/bitstream/handle/10355/44653/research .pdf?sequence=1 Benson, J. J., & Coleman
Connidis, I A., Borell, K., Ghazanfareeon Karlsson, S. (2017) Ambivalence and Living Apart Together in Later Life: A Critical Research Proposal. Journal of Marriage and Family, 79(5): 1404-1418 https://doi.org/10.1111/jomf.12417
Sex, Love and Security: Accounts of Distance and Commitment in Living Apart Together Relationships Crossref DOI link: https://doi.org/10.1177/0038038515573689 Published: 2016-06 Dr Julia Carter, School of Psychology, Politics and Sociology, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, CT1 1QU, UK.
e apart together (LATs): New family form or just a stage? International Review of Sociology, 21,513-532. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03906701.2011.625660
Finch,J., & Mason J. (1993). Negotiating family responsibilities. New York, NY:Tavistock/Routledge. http://dx.doi.org/10.4324/978020339320
Haskey J (2005). "Living arrangements in contemporary Britain: Having a partner who usually lives elsewhere and Living Apart Together (LAT)". Population Trends. 122: 35–45.
Levin I (2004). "Living Apart Together: A New Family Form". Current Sociology. 52 (2): 223–240. doi:10.1177/0011392104041809.
Reimondos, A., Evans, A. and Gray, E. (2011) Living-apart-together (LAT) Relationships in Australia, Family Matters, Vol. 87: 43-55
Strohm CQ, Seltzer JA, Cochran SD, Mays VM (2009). “Living Apart Together relationships in the United States". Demogr Res. 21: 177–214. doi:10.4054/demres.2009.21.7. PMC 3091814. PMID 21566723.
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