Psychology
Intimacy is a very complicated part of the human psyche. This is because there is no universal scale on which intimacy can be measured and effectively labeled. On the other hand there are universally accepted notions about intimacy and the development of a personal relationship between two people. The following essay takes an analytical look at intimacy right from its definition to the minute aspects in play in this regard. The essay also looks at factors that can make an intimate relationship last long or end shortly after its inception.
An intimate relationship is a relationship, which satisfies all the involved parties at an intimate level. This is a deeply emotional relationship, which involves an array of feelings towards a given individual and the reciprocation of these feelings by the individual in question. This is a relationship where the involved parties associate on a very personal level as opposed to public relationships that take place in the public limelight. As the name suggests, there is a hint of privacy attached to intimate relationships. This simply means that this relationship is mostly a closed relationship (Brehm, p.28). It is closed to the outside world and only opens to the involved parties in question. An analysis of the development of intimate relationships can prove to be very interesting. This is because just like any other relationship, intimate relationships begin with nothing more than a mere attraction to a given person. This attraction can be caused either by the physical attributes of the person in question or any other attribute that they possess such as their system of political beliefs or even their faith. If the other person reciprocates this attraction then a relationship develops between the two involved parties. The metamorphosis into an intimate relationship is, however, a gradual process. Two people may feel attracted to each other, but it might take them a very long time to delve into the realm of an intimate relationship (Brehm, p.39). This is because there is usually flair of emotions as far as intimate relationships are concerned. These emotions tend to affect the behavior of the involved parties towards each other and towards the greater society. Thus, irrespective of the feeling of attraction between two people, it may take them a very long time to develop onto a fully-fledged intimate relationship.
The sustenance of an intimate relationship is an aspect of living that is proving to be very elusive in modern times, given the very high rate of divorces. It is, however, very possible to sustain an intimate relationship. This relationship can be sustained by letting the other concerned party know exactly how you feel about them. Longevity of any relationship is primarily hinged on openness and trust (Brehm, p.31). If two individuals are in a relationship, the only way to ensure that the relationship in question stands the test of time is for the concerned parties to be completely open with each other. This openness is especially focused on aspects of their relationship. If an individual feels disgruntled by certain aspects or behaviors of their partner, it is very constructive for the relationship to air these grievances. This will help the two partners reach a compromise where both parties are satisfied by their relationship. This is a sure way to ensure that the relationship lasts until death does us part.
According to personal beliefs, the relationship will work if the involved parties are at the same level of maturity both mentally and emotionally. This will ensure understanding between the involved parties. Negative influences on the relationship might include friends who do not have the best interest of the relationship at heart. They may grow jealous of the relationship ad proceed to undermine it for their own personal gain. Positive influence includes older figure who give valuable advice on how to make the relationship even stronger.
Clearly intimacy is a part of everyday life. Different people experience intimacy in their own unique way and handle arising associated issues in different ways. The personal nature of intimacy is, however, universal. It is, therefore, the responsibility of the involved parties to ensure that the intimate relationship grows.
Works Cited
Brehm, Sharon S.. Intimate relationships. 2nd ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2005. Print
