128: Relationship Churning: Understanding the On-Again, Off-Again Cycle
Podcast Guest: Sarah Halpren-Meekin
April 14th, 2025
Listen to the Show:
In this Episode
In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Sarah Halpern-Meekin explores the phenomenon of relationship churning—breaking up and getting back together repeatedly. She discusses why this pattern is so common, its emotional toll, what research reveals about its impact on couples and children, and how to move toward healthier, more stable relationships. This episode is perfect for anyone curious about relationship dynamics, communication patterns, or emotional well-being in modern romantic relationships.
“The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.”
Time Markers
00:04 – What is relationship churning?
02:43 – Examples from pop culture
04:13 – Sex with an ex explained
05:30 – How common is churning?
07:44 – Psychological effects of churning
09:33 – Impact on children and parenting
13:52 – How churning affects families
16:58 – Advice for supporting loved ones
20:31 – Emotional vs. rational decision-making
22:29 – When churning becomes harmful
24:59 – Role of relationship education
26:32 – Keys to stronger marriage connection
27:38 – Where to learn more
28:39 – Takeaway of the day
Insights
Sarah’s
Churning is common, but it’s important to thoughtfully consider if it’s a healthy and helpful path forward in your relationship.
Liz’s
Sarah offered hope by showing that churning isn’t automatically a red flag—sometimes couples just fall into familiar breakup-makeup patterns.
Dave’s
Churning isn’t always good or bad—it’s a nuanced, personal experience with many possible causes. Understanding the “why” behind it matters most.
About Sarah:
Sarah Halpern-Meekin is a sociologist whose research focuses on family, adolescence, social policy and the welfare state, class and inequality, and qualitative methods. Her current research includes examining the role of parents’ churning (on-again/off-again) relationships in family life, exploring the experiences and financial decision-making of mothers who are receiving monthly unconditional cash gifts, and understanding how rural men make ends meet, spend their time, and make meaning while disconnected from the formal labor force.
Sarah's Resources
https://www.irp.wisc.edu/staff/halpern-meekin-sarah/
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