Your ex might want to be friends after breaking up for a variety of reasons, some of which were already mentioned in the previous response. Here are some additional reasons why your ex may want to maintain a friendship:
Guilt and remorse: If the breakup was initiated by your ex, they might feel guilty about ending the relationship and want to alleviate some of that guilt by staying friends. Being friends allows them to continue supporting you and being a part of your life in a less intimate way.
Avoiding loneliness: Breaking up can be emotionally difficult, and some individuals might fear feeling lonely or isolated without their ex's presence. Staying friends can help them avoid the feelings of loneliness that often accompany a breakup.
Emotional dependency: Your ex might have formed a strong emotional dependency on you during the relationship. Even after the breakup, they might still rely on you for emotional support and want to maintain that connection through a friendship.
Shared history and memories: If you and your ex have shared significant experiences and memories together, they might be reluctant to let go of that shared history completely. Staying friends allows them to hold onto those memories and continue to be a part of your life.
Wanting to see you happy: Your ex might genuinely care about your happiness and well-being. They may believe that staying friends with you is a way to support you and see you happy, even if it's not in a romantic relationship.
Hoping for reconciliation: Some people maintain a friendship with their exes in the hope that it might lead to a reconciliation in the future. They may believe that staying close will give them an opportunity to work through their issues and get back together eventually.
Ease of transition: For some individuals, transitioning from a romantic relationship to a friendship can feel like a smoother process compared to cutting off all contact. It allows them to still be a part of your life without the pressures and expectations of a romantic relationship.
Regardless of the reasons, it's essential to carefully consider your own feelings and needs before agreeing to stay friends with an ex. If the idea of being friends is uncomfortable or hinders your ability to move on, it's okay to communicate your boundaries and take the space you need to heal. Remember that your well-being and emotional health should be the top priority, and it's okay to prioritize your needs during this time of transition.