How is a romantic relationship different from friendship?
Experts answer popular questions about platonic love and romantic attraction.
Research acknowledges the difficulty in defining a romantic relationship.
What is the difference between friends and lovers?
Trying to distinguish between friends and lovers isnt as black-and-white as expected.
Physical/sexual connection
For some, the primary principle that separates lovers and close friendships is sexual attraction.
psychotherapist
One distinction between friends and lovers is the presence of physical attraction and physical intimacy, says Morse.
If sex is on the table, we often expect the connection to be more romantic than platonic.
While this may be the case for some, for others it isnt always that simple.
Intimacy
Intimate friendships and romantic relationships overlap in essential ways.
However,platonic connections can be as deeply committedas romantic ones depending on the people involved.
Additionally, non-monogamous people, such as those inpolyamorous relationships, challenge the necessity of exclusivity at all.
These boundaries include frequency of contact, shared responsibilities, and long-term commitments….[among other factors].
However, Morse says this isnt really the case.
Both romantic relationships and friendships require active care and attention to thrive and feel fulfilling, Morse says.
psychotherapist
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6.
Why are romantic relationships so important?
For many of us, romantic relationships represent the pinnacle of connection, says Lurie.
According to Morse, romantic relationships also have a noticeable impact on our well-being.
Why are intimate friendships so important?
Intimate friendships are usually marked by a deep sense of closeness shared between individuals.
[Intimate friendships are important] for all of the same reasons!
Meaningful friendships are just as impactful and life-changing as romantic relationships.
Experts shared three vital steps to take any time this question comes to mind.
With new friendships or romantic interests, you may feel excitement and a desire to be around each other.
Whereas, A romance may involve an intense desire formultipleforms of intimacyemotional and physical, Morse says.
Should you prioritize romantic relationships over friendships?
Prioritizing both types of relationships is the best course of action for us to have a well-rounded life.
Our culture often puts a huge emphasis on romantic love as a key marker of adulthood, Morse says.
This undervalues the importance of community and close connections.
Choi, Karmel W., et al.
10, 1 Oct. 2020, pp.
944954, https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2020.19111158.
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