Is it inappropriate to hug the opposite sex if you're in a relationship?

[Telekinetic-Potato]

Found out this is more controversial than I thought.

When I'm in a relationship, I usually keep it to one arm and lean so that our lower bodies aren't inappropriately close. I do it more so because I don't want to disrespect my woman.

Thinking back, I have definitely judged past partners by how they hug people.

[Anonymous]

Controversial to who? To your partner? I don’t think it’s wrong to hug a person w two arms. Now if you’re hugging her, groping her, etc, then ok yes there’s a difference. But too it’s all subjective. A girl may feel like it’s sexual harassment if you give her a one handed hug while someone else may not. That’s why it find it hard to believe when a lot of women say they’ve been sexually harassed. Maybe you put your arm on her shoulder, say to get her attention to tell her you’re going on your break or something. She may say you sexually harassed her. Now maybe you put your hand on a girl’s waist, she could be ok w that or accuse you of the same thing. Probably not even best to touch them at all. A lot of this is why it has backfired on women w men not asking them out or making making the 1st move. I’m not saying there aren’t men out there who don’t sexually harass women on purpose. But in this day and age you pretty much can be accused of it for just looking at her if she’s having a bad day or something. Maybe it’s just America.

[Anonymous]

Well it more depends on the intentions behind it. Hugging isn’t romantic or sexual unless you make it. I would be VERY suspicious of people who have their heads in the gutter making anything into something sexual when it’s NOT. It shows you where their brains are at and most of the time they’re simply projecting who they are onto you.

A lot of times you can get the general ‘vibe’ one may say of how it feels. It could be a genuine hug as if it was a bro hug or hug between friends. The hug you give the family members. Then there hugs where someone’s like spooning or whatever.

[DishLady]

Sure, why not? I don't know why so many people are so hung up about hugging. In Mediterranean cultures people hug and kiss in basic greeting all the time. It's only in parts of the "modern western world" that everyone seems to get uptight about hugging the opposite sex or hugging anyone while you or they are in a relationship.

Obviously you don't let the hug linger too long when you know someone is not single, but otherwise there shouldn't be such a fuss over it.

[Telekinetic-Potato]

To me the big problem is the lingering part

[DishLady]

Hmm. True. I've had a couple of occasions where that happens. Just start the pull-back motion when you feel it's appropriate. If they don't get the hint, add a light friendly pat on the shoulder.

[avery58]

I guess it depends on what kind of hug it is. If it's a greeting hug to an old friend, I don't see anything wrong with it.

[AI Opinion]

Navigating the waters of physical affection while tethered to someone's heart requires a blend of respect, transparency, and understanding. It's like dancing a fine line between showing friendliness and maintaining the sanctity of your relationship. Your approach, the one-arm lean, is a subtle yet clear acknowledgment of your commitment. It's not about labeling hugs as inherently inappropriate but understanding the comfort levels and boundaries within your relationship. Dialogue is key! Talk about what feels right for both of you. Remember, it's the intention behind the action and the mutual respect for each other's feelings that count. Who knew hugs could be such a deep dive into relationship dynamics? 🤔💑

[TommyMountainFigure]

There are different types of hugs. With or without groping for starters.

As far as I hug though, yes I hug women even though I'm married (My wife hugs guys too).

When my friend smashed my leg in a freak rugby accident, he hugged me when he realised how much damage he'd done.

I just don't see what the hang up is.. If a hug is meant as JUST a hug, then it's fine!

[RebelinSteel]

It’s fine to hug another person if you are in a relationship, the important part is the context and the thinking behind the hugs, sexual is not allowed.

[Angelo75]

Depends on how your partner takes it.
Depends on how long you hug.
Depends on the person you're hugging (your mom/sister versus some total stranger)
Depends on "the way" you hug. Will you let your crotch touch the other person or do you bow a little? Do you hug tightly so her breasts are pushing against you or do you hug more loosely?

There are a lot of variables.

[Levin]

I've been hugged by girls with boyfriends. It's no big deal. A platonic hug is different to prolonged ones or petting. The boundary is obvious to me.

[TommyMountainFigure]

Exactly!

[Telekinetic-Potato]

I don't know if this site can handle the real questions

[worldscolide]

Family yes? Best female fried, yeah but limited and only if your girlfriend /wife is okay with it. Beyond that no.

[luvstoned4him]

I am mindful with the type of hugs I give

Clearly , I won't hug for extended periods or full bear hugs with just anybody

[BetaBucks]

Light hugs are fine. Side hugs are better. Full embrace is weird and disrespectful.

[HumbleDragon]

This is an excellent question. Everyone is different but for me. Out of respect for my future girlfriend and wife I’d stop hugging other girls, strictly handshakes will I greet them with.

[NathanDavis]

nope

[FunkyMonkee]

Not at all.

[LiamJHayden]

Nope.

[jahaims]

Sure