The Stage 5 Clinger

The stage 5 clinger is a man that is relatively rare to come by in the college world of dating where you are surrounded by a sea of temporary relationships, what-if’s, players, jerks, and the occasional rational normal man. The clingy man is one that is hard to shake once he is hooked. Most of the time you do not even realize that you are making this poor dope fall hopelessly in love with you, and you keep your emotions at bay in order to avoid your own heartache. The clingy man looks like the ordinary collegiate at a distance. He has friends, is social, and can be hiding everywhere. Things start just like a normal relationship and then suddenly things take a turn for the dramatic and crazy.

            What does this clingy relationship entail you might ask? Well it is constant contact; its snap-chats, and texts, and Facebook messages, and phone calls, and even in the most severe cases the accidental (on purpose because of the location service on most recent mupload) run in. There might even be the occasional drive by. The clingy partner wants to know where you, what you are doing, and who you are with. They need consistent attention and will not stop until they get it. They will check to see if texts and messages have been read and even have the ability to know the exact moment you saw and ignored said message, they will then later use that information against you. They will also compulsively check your social media to see who are interacting with.

            Aside from the scary cyber stalking that has been made extraordinarily easy through modern technology, the clinger will say things that are serious and emotional. This person is not afraid to get deep. They will spill their soul and not have a second thought. This person will tell you how it is and they will do anything and everything to make you feel their passion. The clingy companion just wants to be with you and know that you only want to be with them however it extends beyond that and is often driven by insecurity. This man is not afraid to cling in public either. He is not bothered by your social ways and will put up with your antics. He will stand by you every single night out. At the bar he makes sure you don't wander too far because who knows what danger awaits once you are out of earshot. The clinger makes sure to be within eyesight so they can ensure you are doing A-ok. 

            This relationship can be hard to navigate because as a college woman I can tell you, and I’m sure you all know, it is hard to find someone who is real and genuinely passionate about you. This person is so appealing because there is minimal struggle and game playing on their part, their cards are on the table and all the moves are up to you. The main issue that comes into play is knowing when to hold them and when to fold them with the clingy man. It is hard to end however if you do not feel as serious, or don’t see yourself ever getting to that level, it is important to be fair to the person and not continue the relationship. While attention, affection, and being the apple of someone’s eye is a fabulous feeling; the clingy relationship can take a left turn to crazy town real quick! Proceed with caution collegiates!