Christine McGuinness Reveals Concerns About New 'Situationship' and Dating with Autism
Model and television personality Christine McGuinness has openly discussed her latest romantic involvement, expressing fears that it could develop into a "toxic" dynamic. The star, who was previously married to TV presenter Paddy McGuinness for over a decade before their separation in 2022, shared these personal insights on a recent episode of her podcast, Situationships with Sophie and Christine, co-hosted with bestselling author Sophie Gravia.
Trauma Bonding Worries in Current Relationship
During the candid conversation, Christine detailed her apprehensions about her present "situationship," a term describing an undefined romantic relationship. She explained that early discussions with her partner revealed shared experiences that raised red flags. "Before I started this situationship I'm in now, we were talking a lot and I was very aware that a lot of the stuff I was sharing that we had in common could potentially build a trauma bond because I've done it previously," Christine said. She emphasized, "That's the last bond I'd like to build with someone because it's almost toxic."
Navigating Dating with Autism and Family Concerns
Christine, who is autistic, also spoke about the unique challenges of dating while neurodivergent. She admitted to worrying about her three children, who share the same diagnosis, and their future romantic prospects. "I think about it a lot. I think about it for my children too. I have the same worries and thoughts [will they date]," she revealed. "Are they going to be okay as they get older? For now, they are little so I don't need to worry too much, but for me myself as an adult and being quite new to dating, I still struggle with it."
To manage her comfort levels, Christine has found that honesty about her autism is crucial in dating scenarios. "I find myself explaining, but it helps if I explain and if I let somebody know that I'm autistic and might not be comfortable in a new restaurant or a bar I haven't been to before," she stated. She added, "I find that now is absolutely necessary for me to say rather than to just go and be in a place that I don't really like or don't feel comfortable. If it's too lively, if it's too busy, then the date doesn't go well. It's kind of not really giving the date a chance if I'm not honest about what I do and don't like."
Past Dating Experiences and Future Hopes
Christine's journey in the dating world has included a stint on the E4 reality show Celebs Go Dating last year, from which she withdrew midway. Reflecting on that experience, she explained, "I've been thinking quite a lot whilst we've been in Ibiza and I think I need to date in more of a natural environment. I think I just would love to meet somebody and date more privately. It's where I'm kind of feeling myself going back, when I want to go freely forward." This shift highlights her desire for a more authentic and low-key approach to finding love, away from the public eye.
Through her podcast and public statements, Christine McGuinness continues to shed light on the complexities of modern relationships, trauma bonding, and the intersection of autism with personal connections, offering a relatable perspective for many listeners.
