Casual relationships are pretty commonplace nowadays, but even if you're both trying to keep it simple, there are certain and unsuspecting times where it can actually become just the opposite, Helen Fisher, anthropologist, a senior research fellow at The Kinsey Institute and co-director of Match's annual Singles in America survey , told INSIDER.
According to Match. Whether you call them flings, situationships, or friends with benefits, here are 13 subtle signs that it could be turning into something a bit more serious.
Casual flings usually have limited communication through text messages unless it involves setting up an encounter. According to a forensic sexologist, chief of sexology, and director of clinical research programs at Felnett Health Research Foundation Damian J. Sendler, Ph. Therefore, even the quality of messages that you are exchanging with your fling is poor," he said. It's the chance for both of you to get to know each other in a non-obligatory way. Plus, things like asking how your day is going is another sign that you're heading into more serious direction.
Casual flings aren't usually the type of situations that require you to spend time with one another outside of having sex. If it's beginning to turn into something more than that, however, you may find yourself looking for more reasons to hang out with your fling. The same applies to relationships. It's an especially strong sign of affection and romantic interest when the person you're seeing cancels other plans to spend time with you.
This is especially relevant when you just met this individual, who's made some plans in the past, and they want to risk their time and energy to get to know you. Engaging in a casual fling usually finds you and the other party having sex and nothing more. When it's starting to become more than just a fling though, being touchy-feely during times when you're not having sex could become a normal part of your interaction.
