It is a bang out ofcasualarrangement that exists somewhere between a friendship and a romantic relationship.

If youve seen this dynamic in movies and shows, you may wonder whether it really works.

What Does a Friends With Benefits Relationship Look Like?

Leisurely male friends reclining on bed with smart phones.

thianchai sitthikongsak / Getty Images

There are no rules or guidelines for these relationships.

They can vary widely based on the preferences of the people involved, says Dr. Romanoff.

Is Being Friends With Benefits Right for You?

There is no hard and fast rule about where this dynamic leads, says Dr. Romanoff.

There are many variables that impact this trajectory.

2013;42(8):1443-1449. doi:10.1007/s10508-013-0160-7