If your throwback with your ex-boyfriend is reserved for more than a Thursday, you may have some serious mental issues, according to a new study from psychologists at Oakland University. That’s right, entertaining that dude who broke your heart is a sign that you possess darker personality traits than your Instagram bio is letting on. The study surveyed 861 people on how they got along with their exes, and the odds are not in your favour.
Being friends with your ex is linked to narcissism, duplicity and psychopathy. So before you start going around with the ”it’s over but we’re still really close” shpiel, you may want to say your goodbyes and cut your ties. The study declares that people stay friends with their exes for strategic reasons, and tend to have more short-term relationships as a result. For men, pragmatism and sexual access were rated slightly more important, implying that they weren’t looking for a nurturing relationship, but one where the other person proves to be useful in times of need.
For narcissists, the benefits may extend to social value or status. That is, determining your worth by your exes. It might also be a case of pride, since you don’t want to see other people with your ex. We recommend eating a tub of ice cream salted with your tears while watching The Notebook, instead of hanging out with your first boyfriend and his new significant other. And the next time he blows up your phone, may be just ignore the call and get a cat instead.
Truths about love you won’t find in a Hallmark card
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