Why do people monkey branch?

Exploring the psychology of relationship hopping

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

I USED to believe dating only threw punches at a select few, but the reality is that everyone can experience heartbreak or betrayal.

No matter your age or relationship history, relationships often teach us unexpected lessons about ourselves.

One of the newest buzzwords doing the rounds in conversations about relationships is "monkey branching".

If you haven't heard it yet, monkey branching, sometimes referred to as monkey barring, occurs when someone quietly forms a new romantic connection while remaining committed to their existing relationship.

Only when they're confident that the new relationship is secure do they let go of the old one.

Aside from health and wealth, most people just want to feel loved, understood and appreciated. This universal desire for love and connection can sometimes lead individuals to monkey branch, as they seek constant reassurance and the comfort of companionship.

By swinging from one relationship to another without a break, they attempt to avoid the fear of loneliness and the challenges that come with self-reflection and personal growth.

So why do some people move quickly from one relationship to the next without taking a break?