Students at Sacramento State shared their opinions on “bromance” versus romance, in a quest to uncover different perspectives, and perhaps, a secret recipe to managing both types of relationships.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary website defines “bromance” as a close nonsexual friendship between men.

Jordan Boas, a junior with an expressed interest in graphic design, shared his “bromantic” perspective.

Boas believes there is some sort of ritual that has to take place before you move into a more comfortable, romantic relationship. And he thinks that the only downside to managing both types of relationships is when his attention must be divided between his romantic relationship and his “bromantic” relationship.

“A bromantic relationship allows for the ability to be more open at first whereas, a romantic relationship, you build up to that,” Boas said. “With a guy friend, I settle into a more comfortable position quicker.”

Boas believes the “secret recipe,” if one exists, to managing these relationships is to know what the expectations are of both types of relationships.

Arthur Quinones, speech language pathology major, said managing a “bromantic” and a romantic relationship takes a lot of work.

Quinones said it’s important to find a balance, to know what makes each person comfortable, and to respect their comfort zone. He said if you’re in a “bromantic” relationship, you’re not thinking that your friend is going to get jealous if you pursue a romantic relationship.

“You have to respect the other person’s feelings,” Quinones said. “Everybody wants to be validated. Respect what they’re comfortable with, and if you want it to work, then you will make it work.”

Tyrell Lassair, a sophomore majoring in environmental science, was vague about his romantic status but shared more perspective on his “bromantic” status.

“I’m in a situationship,” Lassair said.

Lassair spent a lot of time with his fraternity brothers over the summer break, so they built a certain bond and understanding of each other, which is why he thinks they are close.

“In a bromantic relationship, it’s always healthy to be around other guys because you get to express yourself in a different way than if you were with someone you’re romantically involved with,” Lassair said. “You can kind of breathe a little bit more, feel more comfortable around people who understand where you’re coming from because sometimes in a relationship, two people have a different way of seeing the world. Guys and girls have different views on different things. With guys you can express yourself, hangout and have that connection with your friends, versus when you’re in a relationship with someone. You’re connecting in a different way.”

Lassair said finding a balance in managing relationships is important. Otherwise, someone is going to feel neglected.

“In a romantic relationship you have to make sure the person understands that you need time to for yourself and to hang out with your friends,” Lassair said. “As for your friends, you need to let them know that you’re in a relationship and you have to dedicate time to your girl or guy or whatever you have.”