Is it radical honesty or just laziness? Let's talk about the viral trend redefining the "situationship."
If you’ve spent any time on relationship TikTok or Twitter (X) this year, you’ve likely seen the term "Free Use" floating around. While the phrase originally belongs to the realm of specific adult fiction, 2024 has seen it repurposed into a relationship philosophy that is equal parts liberating and exhausting.
We are living in the era of the "Free Use Friendship." It’s the dynamic where barriers are removed, consent is assumed but blurred, and "can't be bothered" is the prevailing mood. But is this the ultimate form of trust, or are we just romanticizing burnout? cant be bothered a free use friendship 2024 b top
If you’re intrigued by the 2024 trend, here’s how to try it:
Psychologists are divided. Dr. Elena Marchetti, a sociologist specializing in digital relationships, says: “Free use friendship works for neurodivergent individuals, people with chronic illnesses, or those in high-stress jobs. It removes shame from low social battery.” However, she warns: “If both people truly don’t care, is it still friendship? Or just acquaintanceship with a nostalgic label?” The "Free Use" Friendship: The Defining Situationship of
The counterpoint: Many people report that can’t be bothered friendships are actually more sustainable. Without guilt or scorekeeping, when they do connect, it’s genuine — not obligatory.
The B top, in particular, thrives here. They are never resentful, never burned out. They give exactly what they have, no more, no less. Be explicit
Within this ecosystem, roles have emerged. The A top (in some rare online mentions) is the high-effort initiator – planning trips, sending long voice notes, remembering anniversaries. But in 2024, the B top is the real star.
A B top is:
In free use friendships, the B top is often the more emotionally regulated person. They set the tone: relaxed, non-demanding, but reliably present in a low-frequency way. They are the opposite of a needy friend. And in 2024, many people are desperate for exactly that.