What Happens Abroad Stays Abroad?

Abstract

While substantial research focuses on genuine long-distance relationships, there is a lack of studies dealing with temporary long-distance relationships due to studies abroad. The present study with Austrian students tried to uncover differences between couples who terminated versus those who sustained their relationship during the exchange period. Participants (N = 119, 73.9% females, Mage = 24 years) were asked about perceived changes in the relationship due to their exchange experience, which they mainly spent abroad in Europe. Couples sustaining their relationship had more in-person contact. Thus, visits are essential for maintaining long-distance relationships during time abroad. In addition, participants still in their relationship after the exchange noticed different effects of changes on their relationship than did couples who separated.