What is intimacy?
Does and can include sexual involvement, however
Intimacy refers to the special relational states and interactions that occur in close relationships, characterized by feelings of warmth, trust, and deep friendship.
Intimacy is a state of openness and familiarity.
Charcterized by genuineness and an absence of ‘role relationships’
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People actively search for intimacy and communication is its method.
* Slide “how are intimate relationships formed?”
Self disclosure. Social penetration theory. People are like onions with many layers. Not about breadth but about depth.
* slide – read immediacy behaviors
outcome:
Relational intimacy is formed through repeated intimate interactions that foster and display relationship development. This results in both partners feeling close, connected, or deeply caring toward each other
Characteristics of intimate relationships:
Unique: when we first meet people our communication is scripted, however as we get to know them-we use conventional language that is widely understood. However as people become close, people develop a more idiosyncratic style of communication that reflects the unique characteristics of their personalities and the relationship they share
Depth: IR are deep rather than superficial. They are characterized by the sharing of time and space, touch, and in depth self disclosure not found in other relationships.
Time and repeated interaction: IR are formed and developed through people who have sustained the relationship across multiple episodes and interactions.
Positive effect: positive emotional exchange characterizes intimate relationships
Listening and understanding: being listened to and feeling understood are also essential for intimacy
Types of intimacy:
Non-verbal intimacy: usually non-verbal behaviors show the quality of a relationship more than the verbal