Long-distance romantic relationships among college students: Prevalence, correlates, and dynamics in a campus probability survey.

Objective: to determine the prevalence of long-distance relationships (LDRs) among college students and explore how relationship dynamics differed between LDRs and geographically close relationships (GCRs). Participants: Data were from romantically involved students (N = 2075) who participated in the 2020 College Sexual Health Survey. Methods: Students completed an online survey in which they reported their current romantic relationship status, if they were in a long-distance relationship, and relationship dynamics (happiness, commitment, and conflict). Results: overall, 34.2% of romantically involved students were in LDRs, which were more common for first-year students, students in longer duration relationships, dating relationships, and Hispanic, Asian, and multiracial students. LDRs were less common for older students. Based on χ² tests, relationship happiness, commitment, and conflict did not differ based on LDR status. Conclusions: As LDRs are common, providing students with resources focused on navigating LDRs may help them manage their romantic relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]