A mathematician has devised a formula to predict the success of long-distance relationships among university students. Bobby Seagull analysed data from 1,000 individuals aged 18 to 30 who were in a long-distance relationship during their university years, identifying key factors that contribute to relationship success.
The formula calculates a 'Long-Distance Love Index' based on effort versus challenges. Factors include distance travelled, number of texts and calls, and frequency of declarations of love. On average, couples travelled 171.3 miles per visit, saw each other three times a month, and spent nearly £170 monthly on travel. The majority (72%) travelled by train.
The study found that 72% of these relationships proved successful. Key habits included daily communication via calls or texts, and accepting that the separation is temporary. Couples sent an average of 68 texts per day and spoke on the phone four times daily, while skipping about four and a half days of lectures to visit each other.
Sarah Rosier, customer experience director for National Express, which commissioned the research, said: 'This autumn has seen high school sweethearts parting ways and going to separate universities. So, we wanted to find the perfect formula to help them stay together.'
According to the formula, a Long-Distance Love index score above 300 indicates a high chance of success. Seagull added: 'If they stick to the numbers there is a high chance they can make this work.'
