253. Monkey-Bar Dating: The Hidden Trend of Overlapping Relationships

Introduction: What Is Monkey-Bar Dating?

In playgrounds, children use monkey bars to swing from one rung to the next—never letting go of the first bar until they’re safely holding onto the next. A similar pattern has emerged in the dating world, called Monkey-Bar Dating.

This trend describes people who start investing emotionally or romantically in a new partner before officially ending their current relationship. It’s not quite cheating, but it’s also not a clean break. Instead, it’s a way of avoiding being “single in the middle” by overlapping relationships.

Why Is Monkey-Bar Dating Becoming So Common?

1. Fear of Loneliness

Many singles say they don’t want to face the uncertainty of being alone, so they secure a new connection before letting go of the old one.

2. Dating Apps Make It Easy

With endless options at our fingertips, apps like Tinder, Bumble, or even niche platforms such as Milana.Date make it simple to start conversations with potential partners at any time—even when someone is technically still in a relationship.

3. Emotional Safety Net

For some, starting something new before leaving the old gives them a sense of security. It’s less risky to move on if another relationship is already waiting.

4. Changing Norms Around Commitment

Modern dating is more fluid. Labels like “exclusive,” “casual,” or “situationship” are often unclear, which creates space for overlap.

The Psychology Behind Monkey-Bar Dating

Experts describe Monkey-Bar Dating as a coping strategy. Instead of enduring the discomfort of being alone or facing the guilt of breaking up, people keep one foot in each world.

• Attachment Style: Those with anxious attachment may struggle with the idea of “being single,” so they prepare a backup partner.
• Avoidance of Conflict: Breaking up is hard. Some people delay honesty by moving into something new first.
• Fear of Scarcity: The belief that good partners are rare encourages some to hold onto every possible connection.

Signs You May Be Experiencing Monkey-Bar Dating

If you suspect your partner—or yourself—may be engaging in Monkey-Bar Dating, here are some common patterns:

• They suddenly seem less present but haven’t broken up.
• There’s a new “friend” they mention often, sometimes more than their current partner.
• Emotional or physical intimacy shifts without explanation.
• They avoid long-term planning or serious conversations.
• The relationship ends right after a new one starts.

Is Monkey-Bar Dating Always Bad?

Not necessarily. Some argue it’s a natural response to the fast-paced dating world. However, problems arise when there’s lack of honesty.

Potential Downsides:

• Hurts trust and respect in relationships.
• Prevents clean emotional closure.
• Creates cycles of dissatisfaction, since relationships start in secrecy or overlap.

Potential Upside:

• Can give people courage to finally leave unhealthy relationships.
• Reduces the fear of loneliness during transitions.

How to Protect Yourself from Monkey-Bar Dating

1. Clarify Relationship Status – Don’t assume exclusivity; talk about it early.
2. Set Boundaries – Know what you’re comfortable with regarding communication with others.
3. Watch for Red Flags – If they’re emotionally distant but not breaking up, something might be off.
4. Work on Self-Confidence – Being comfortable alone helps prevent both falling into and tolerating overlapping relationships.

Conclusion: Dating with Transparency Matters

Monkey-Bar Dating reflects the challenges of modern romance—where apps, fear of loneliness, and blurred relationship norms make overlapping relationships more tempting. But while swinging from one connection to the next may feel safer, it often leaves behind unresolved feelings and broken trust.

At Milana.Date, we believe in honest, intentional dating. Building strong foundations begins with clarity—letting go of the last rung before moving confidently to the next.

Updated on: 25/09/2025