12 Subtle Characteristics Of Push And Pull Relationships

Every relationship has its own rhythm, a distinctive dance of emotions that connects two individuals. Yet, some steps can leave you feeling disoriented, confused, and wanting more, all at once. Welcome to the intriguing yet tumultuous world of push-and-pull relationships—a dance that resembles a high-stakes emotional tug-of-war.

What Is a Push-and-Pull Relationship?

A push-and-pull relationship is a unique romantic dynamic where one partner withdraws (the “push”) while the other seeks to draw them closer (the “pull”). It’s a thrilling yet draining rollercoaster, where instead of moving in sync, the partners often drift in opposing directions.

This pattern feels like being caught in a cycle of hot and cold, with alternating moments of closeness and distance—like a suspenseful romance unfolding on screen. One moment, the attraction and intimacy are undeniable; the next, there’s detachment and emotional distance.

Imagine it as an emotional game of cat and mouse. The “puller” chases the “pusher,” but just as they get close, the pusher slips away, creating a continuous loop of pursuit and retreat, of love given and then withheld.

But, just like any story, this can’t be the whole picture. What’s really driving this emotional seesaw, this game of ‘now you see me, now you don’t’?

# Emotional Highs and Lows

Push-pull relationships are filled with intense moments of affection the "pull" followed by sudden coldness the "push". It’s like going from summer to winter in a single day—exciting but ultimately draining.

# Frequent Breakups and Makeups

Think of your favorite on-again, off-again TV couple Ross and Rachel, anyone? Now imagine that playing out in real life. Entertaining on screen, but exhausting in your own love life.

# One Partner Pursuing, the Other Distancing

In this constant chase, the ‘puller’ often anxiously attached seeks closeness, while the ‘pusher’ usually avoidantly attached pulls away. It’s like a game of tag where the roles of who's ‘it’ keep shifting.

# The ‘Phantom Ex’

Just like a haunting ghost, past relationships can affect the present. The push-pull dynamic often stems from unresolved issues or baggage from prior relationships, with the shadow of an ex looming over the current one.

# Inconsistent Communication

Communication swings like a yo-yo. At times it’s frequent, affectionate, and almost obsessive, while at other moments it’s detached and minimal. This inconsistency leaves the ‘puller’ feeling anxious and unsure.

# Commitment Issues

The push-pull dynamic often results in commitment hesitation, particularly from the ‘pusher,’ who might avoid defining the relationship or taking significant steps like making future plans or moving in together.

# An Emotional Rollercoaster

The relationship is intense, passionate, and exciting, but also emotionally exhausting. The constant cycle of intimacy followed by detachment wears down both partners.

# Power Imbalance

The ‘pusher’ usually holds more control in the relationship, creating an imbalance. This often leaves the ‘puller’ feeling insecure and grappling with low self-esteem, like walking a tightrope between hope and despair.

# Jealousy and Possessiveness

The ‘puller,’ fearing abandonment, may display intense jealousy and possessiveness, while the ‘pusher’ responds with even more emotional distance, reinforcing the cycle.

# Impact on Other Areas of Life

A push-pull relationship can become so consuming that it spills over into other parts of your life, making it difficult to focus on work, maintain friendships, or enjoy personal interests.

# Difficulty Resolving Conflicts

Conflicts in this relationship often follow the same pattern: the ‘puller’ tries to address the issues, while the ‘pusher’ avoids confrontation. This results in ongoing frustration and unresolved problems.

# Constant Need for Reassurance

The ‘puller’ constantly seeks reassurance due to the unpredictability of the ‘pusher’s’ behavior. It’s like trying to build a house on unstable ground—no matter how many times you check the foundation, the fear of collapse remains.

Related Stories:

# Is Your Boyfriend Too Clingy? 9 Signs to Watch For

# Is Relationship FOMO Holding You Back? 8 Signs You're Missing Out on the Present