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.