Can former romantic partners maintain a friendship? Many men seem to believe so, as suggested by a study in the peer-reviewed journal Social Psychological and Personality Science. The research indicates that men generally hold more positive views of their past relationships compared to women. However, the decision to sustain a platonic connection with an ex after a breakup is a subjective choice, raising concerns for many, irrespective of gender.
Conducted by the University of Graz, the study surveyed around 900 adults currently in heterosexual relationships lasting at least four months. Participants had also experienced previous relationships of a similar duration. The findings revealed that, overall, men displayed more favorable sentiments toward their ex-partners than women did.
The researchers proposed intriguing theories to explain this gender difference. They suggested that women tend to approach relationships with a more “pragmatic” mindset, seeking long-term commitment and exclusivity. Conversely, men often adopt a more casual attitude, perceiving sex as a “physical act that provides pleasure.”
In essence, when a relationship concludes, women may perceive their emotional investment as a wasted effort, leading to resentment. On the other hand, men may view the experience as sexually gratifying and aligned with their expectations and desires. It’s important to note that these findings do not universally apply to all individuals, and many heterosexual couples choose to maintain amicable connections post-breakup.
The researchers also theorized that women are more inclined to attribute the breakup to their ex-partner’s “problematic behaviors,” such as infidelity or emotional/physical abuse. In contrast, men may express uncertainty about the reasons behind the split. Additionally, the study revealed that women often adopt “constructive coping mechanisms,” seeking support, assurance, and closure from friends, while men may struggle to accept that their ex-partner was not the right match for them.