What characterizes intimacy within a couple relationship?
How close we are or feel with our partner, our intimacy, is essential to any sexual relationship.
Intimacy is characterized by:
(A) the mutual sharing of personal information,
(B) behaviors that consistently show a strong preference for each other and
(C) moments of verbal and physical affection.
Intimacy influencies, on a daily basis, erotic passion, frequency of sexual intercourse and sexual satisfaction for both men and women.
Obviously intimacy is a dynamic characteristic of the relationship, that changes or is redefined daily, not only by the couple’s behaviors, but also by external factors.
What can a couple do to increase their intimacy?
- Schedule time together (even a little) on a daily basis. Also, a few days of holiday, regularly scheduled and without obligations. This time is an ideal opportunity to show each other attention and availability.
- Sincere communication for the purpose of sharing personal information, thoughts and emotions on a daily basis.
- Physical expression of tenderness (without necessarily being followed by sexual intercourse) and sharing of sexual desires and needs.
- Continuous monitoring of the evolution of the relationship, modifying habits that reduce intimacy and, above all, direct the evolution of the relationship according to the couple’s priorities.
Rubin H, Campbell L (2011) Day-to-Day Changes in Intimacy Predict Heightened Relationship Passion, Sexual Occurrence, and Sexual Satisfaction: A Dyadic Diary Analysis. Social Psychological and Personality Science 3: 224-231.
