Better known as ‘friends-with-benefits’ (FWB), this phenomenon, defined as a part-time, limited-time, or even monogamous friendship between two people who enjoy physical intimacy with each other but are not interested in being together long-term, is becoming more publicly discussed and acceptable with the 2011 release of No Strings Attached with Natalie Portman and Ashton Kucher and the soon to be released title with the eponymous Friends with Benefits, starring Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis.

Like casual sex?

No. The friendship aspect involves the opportunity to experience mutual support, affection, and enjoyment, and often satisfies romantic or emotional needs.

Like a ‘One Night Stand’?

No. One night stands are typically purely for sexual gratification.

Do men and women see eye to eye?

I wasn’t surprised when my Facebook poll indicated that men are in favor FWB (not much of a surprise), but I was shocked and surprised, to put it mildly, to find that at least 50% of women also indicated that with the specification of limits and limitations (i.e. rules), they could see a friend -Relationship with work benefits.

Researchers at Deakin University say that women ages 18 to 35 are just as likely as men to enjoy casual sexual arrangements, but for different reasons. Women say that these arrangements give them sexual confidence, while men are more likely to say that they enjoy the intimacy of friendship.

Women and men over the age of 35, who are leaving long-term relationships or have recently divorced, are also more interested in participating in FWB.

An increasing number of people are entering into buddy relationships with benefits, so instead of telling you not to do it, which, frankly, is DEFINITELY (bold, underscore, italics, ALLCAPS !!) my advice, here are my seven tips on how to do it right!

The critery

1. Honesty – With yourself. If you secretly hope that your FWB will grow into a long-term relationship, don’t do it!

2. Discretion – My great-grandmother used to say that if you want to keep a secret, tell a dead person.

3. Focus on the task – Clearly, looks are a key benefit here. Focus on it and get it right!

4. Trust – In other words, don’t be territorial. You don’t have the right.

5. Sobriety – Do I need to say more?

6. Known vs. friend – If you choose an acquaintance, you don’t have to worry about losing a friend when it’s all over.

7. Rules – Clearly state the rules. For example, is PDA (public display of affection) allowed?

And, most importantly, don’t say I didn’t warn you!