Paper

There is “approximately 3.6 million married U.S. Americans involved in a long distance relationship in 2006” and “4 to 4.5 million U.S. college couples in a long distance relationship (LDR)” (Hassenzahl, 2012,p. 2). There are many challenges that couples in long distance relationship face, for instance, lack of face- to- face communication, and physical closeness. Couples in LDRs are also prone to experiencing extreme idealization, for instance, experiencing false ideals due to distance and not spending physical and quality time in their relationship. Recent study found that when those in long-distance dating relationships moved to a proximal relationship, they were likely to terminate the relationship (Beebe et al, 2011, p. 286). In other words, the transition from LDRs to geographical close relationship (GCR) may come to rapid termination of the relationship. This may happen because couples who live far apart obtains fewer information about their significant other. However, high idealization leads to high satisfaction in LDRs which increase longevity. “Couples in long-distance premarital relationships had less communication but surprisingly greater satisfaction and higher expectation for the likelihood of marriage than those in proximal, or geographically close, relationships” (Beebe et al, 2011, p. 286). My personal interest to the topic is based on by experience. Before my husband and I were married; we had a long distance relationship. Both of us are in the Military and in different branches we were always miles apart. Despite the long distances between us, we still manage to make our love flourish through communication. Now that my husband and I are married and are now geographically close to each other, we are learning more...

... middle of paper ...

...ip. Couples in LDRs faces more challenges than GCRs, therefore the commitment to maintain a relationship with their significant other is stronger. Despite the results being in favor of the research questions. Some of the challenges that LDRs face are limited communication and high idealization. Couples who are truly committed in LDRs will be able to overcome all challenges and barriers that may arise. In order to accomplish a satisfying and authentic relationship filled with longevity, its vital to reduce idealization and maintain a healthy communication line. Being in a LDRs is not an easy task, therefore, more studies containing research on positive and negative attitudes of LDR would be recommended. All data on LDRs are very limited therefore, its important that all marriage counselor gain adequate knowledge and coping strategies for couple experiencing LDRs.