Do fwb usually come back? (20 Reasons your fwb might keep coming back)

By: Naveen B

Friends with benefits (FWB) relationships can be complicated and emotionally challenging.

After ending such a casual relationship, you may find yourself wondering, Do FWB usually come back? The answer to this question is not straightforward, and it depends on several factors. However, understanding the psychology behind why someone might come back to an FWB relationship can shed light on the situation.

In this blog post, we will explore 20 possible reasons why your FWB might come back. We will examine these reasons from psychological perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of the motivations behind a FWB’s return.

From the complexity of human emotions to the intricacies of interpersonal relationships, we will delve into the various factors that may influence a FWB’s decision to come back.

Whether you’re looking for closure or hoping to rekindle the relationship, understanding these factors can help you make sense of the situation and move forward with confidence.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the factors that may lead your FWB to come back, and how to handle the situation if they do. So let’s dive in and explore the complex world of FWB relationships.

Do FWB usually come back?

Do fwb come back? In short, Friends With Benefits (FWB) partners usually come back. However, the answer is not as straightforward as one might expect. It depends on the dynamics of the relationship and the individuals involved. Every situation is different, and there are many factors that can influence whether or not a FWB partner is likely to return.

Generally speaking, individuals in FWB relationships may experience a range of feelings, from contentment to attachment to uncertainty.

These feelings may be rooted in the individuals’ motivations for entering into the relationship.

For instance, individuals may enter into a FWB situation as a way to avoid deeper emotional connections or to fill a void for companionship. 

The uncertainty of the relationship and the potential for attachment can make it difficult for the individuals involved to know if the FWB will come back.

If one partner develops strong feelings for the other, they may be less likely to come back, as they may feel too vulnerable to stay in the relationship.

On the other hand, if both partners remain emotionally detached and view the relationship as a source of companionship and convenience, the FWB may be more likely to come back. 

It is also important to consider the level of communication and commitment within the relationship.

If communication is open and honest and both individuals are committed to the FWB relationship, it is more likely that the FWB will come back.

If communication is lacking or one person is not ready to commit, the FWB may be more likely to fade away. 

Therefore, it’s important to remember that FWB relationships are not necessarily designed to last forever, and it’s not uncommon for one or both partners to eventually move on.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that they won’t come back, however. It’s possible that one or both partners may decide to rekindle their relationship after a period of time apart, especially if they still have mutual chemistry for each other.

The likelihood of a FWB partner returning can also be affected by the way in which the relationship ended.

If the breakup was a peaceful one, with both partners still feeling positive towards one another, then it’s more likely that they may both be open to the idea of getting back together.

On the other hand, if the breakup was hostile or painful, then it’s less likely that either partner will be willing to try again.

It’s also important to consider the individual personalities of the partners involved in the FWB relationship.

Also read: Why does my fwb keeps coming back? (meaning, 25 reasons, tips with examples to deal with the situation)

Some people are more open to taking risks and trying again after a breakup, while others may be more hesitant and more likely to avoid a repeat of the same situation.

Additionally, if one partner is more attached to the other than the other is to them, then it’s possible that the more attached partner may be more likely to come back and try again.

Finally, it’s important to remember that FWB relationships are not always successful or long-lasting, and it’s possible that one or both partners may decide that the relationship is no longer working for them.

In this case, it’s unlikely that either partner will be interested in rekindling the relationship.

Ultimately, the answer to the question of whether or not an FWB will come back is dependent on the individual dynamics of the relationship and the motivations of each partner.

Also read: My ex wants to be friends with benefits: 20 reasons and tips to handle the situation

However, if you are still thinking about do fwb usually come back? the following reasons might give you clarity.

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20 Possible reasons your fwb might usually come back

Here are some of the obvious psychological reasons your fwb might keep coming back:

1. Human Need for Familiarity

The human brain is wired to seek out familiar experiences and relationships, even if they are not always healthy or beneficial.

This can lead someone to return to a FWB arrangement because it feels familiar and comfortable.

2. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

Fear of missing out (FOMO) can also play a role.

If the FWB arrangement was satisfying in some ways, your partner may worry that they will miss out on those positive experiences if they don’t come back.

3. Craving Connection and Intimacy

People often crave connection and intimacy, even if they are not looking for a traditional romantic relationship.

If your partner is feeling lonely or disconnected, they may be more likely to return to a FWB arrangement because it offers some level of emotional connection without the commitment of a romantic relationship.

4. Sunk Cost Fallacy

The concept of sunk cost fallacy may also come into play.

If your partner has invested time and emotional energy into the FWB arrangement, they may feel like they need to keep it going in order to justify that investment.

5. Change in Preferences

People’s preferences and desires can change over time. Your partner may have initially been interested in a FWB arrangement but then realized they want something more serious.

However, if they haven’t found a more serious partner yet, they may be more likely to return to the FWB arrangement as a temporary solution.

6. Thrill of the Chase

Some people enjoy the thrill of the chase or the excitement of a forbidden relationship.

If your partner enjoys the secrecy or taboo nature of the FWB arrangement, they may be more likely to return for that reason.

7. Fulfillment of Needs

The FWB arrangement may have fulfilled a specific need or desire for your partner that they haven’t been able to find elsewhere.

If they still have that need or desire, they may be more likely to return to the arrangement.

8. Resistance to Change

People often resist change, even if it is for the better.

If your partner is used to the FWB arrangement and the dynamics that come with it, they may be resistant to changing things up or trying something new.

9. Social Proof

The concept of social proof may also come into play.

If your partner sees that others are in successful FWB arrangements or that it is normalized in their social circle, they may be more likely to return to the arrangement.

10. Need for Validation

If your partner has low self-esteem or is feeling insecure, they may be more likely to return to a FWB arrangement as a way to feel desired or valued.

11. Convenience

Sometimes people return to a FWB arrangement simply because it is convenient.

If they are not interested in pursuing a more serious relationship but still want the benefits of a sexual relationship, the FWB arrangement may be the easiest and most convenient option.

12. Unresolved Feelings or Issues

Your partner may have unresolved feelings or unresolved issues from the previous FWB arrangement that they want to address or explore further.

13. Seeking Familiarity and Routine

People often seek out familiarity and routine, even if it is not always healthy.

If the FWB arrangement was a regular part of your partner’s routine or schedule, they may be more likely to return to it.

14. Attachment Theory

The idea of attachment theory also comes into play. Your partner may be attached to you and the connection you share.

And may have difficulty letting go of that attachment even if they know the arrangement is not sustainable in the long-term.

15. Individual Circumstances and Preferences

The reasons for someone returning to a FWB arrangement are complex and varied, and may depend on individual circumstances and personal preferences.

It is important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner to understand their motivations and needs, and to make sure that both parties are on the same page about the nature of the relationship.

16. Emotional/physical satisfaction

The FWB arrangement may have been emotionally or physically satisfying for your partner, leading them to seek out that same level of satisfaction again.

17. Difficulty letting go

People often have a hard time letting go of things that bring them pleasure or happiness, even if they know it may not be sustainable or healthy in the long run.

Your partner may be hesitant to give up the positive aspects of the FWB arrangement.

18. Seeking comfort/distraction

Your partner may be going through a difficult time in their life, such as a breakup or career stress, and may be seeking comfort or distraction through the FWB arrangement.

19. Appeal of unpredictability

The unpredictability and lack of structure in a FWB arrangement can be appealing to some people, especially if they crave excitement or adventure.

20. Missing connection with you

Finally, it is possible that your partner simply misses you and the connection you shared in the FWB arrangement.

Humans are social creatures and often seek out connection with others, and the FWB arrangement may have provided a level of connection that your partner is missing in their life.

Final thoughts:

In conclusion, there are many factors that can influence whether or not your FWB will come back after the arrangement has ended.

From a psychological perspective, factors such as attachment style, emotional connection, and attraction can all play a role.

From an intuitive perspective, considerations such as personal values, beliefs, and goals may be at play.

And from a logical perspective, practical factors such as timing, convenience, and mutual benefit may also influence the situation.

While there is no guaranteed way to predict whether or not your FWB will come back, understanding these possible reasons can provide some clarity and help you move forward with confidence.

Ultimately, it’s important to prioritize your own emotional well-being and make decisions that align with your personal values and goals.

Whether your FWB comes back or not, remember that you are deserving of love, respect, and fulfillment in all of your relationships.

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Experienced Psychology and philosophy Writer, self-help and relationship Coach and thought influencer. He has 7 years of experience in Personal development industry. His expertise as a self-help and relationship Coach has been highlighted through his articles in medium and substack to name a few. To be updated with his latest work, connect with him by following his social media accounts.

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