Having séx with an ex seems to be a fairly typical part of the breakup process for young adults, a new study shows. But the behavior could be risky, pushing former partners into emotionally complicated territory where safe-séx measures are likely to be cast aside, researchers say.
The study's authors collected data on 792 "emerging adults" ages 17 to 24, who had been part of a longitudinal survey (meaning scientists followed them through time) in Lucas County, Ohio, which includes the city of Toledo. All had been in a relationship within the past two years. The researchers found that nearly half (44 percent) had broken up and gotten back together with a girlfriend or boyfriend.
