Relationships are a crucial aspect of health and well-being. They are a cornerstone of our happiness and provide us with feelings of encouragement and belonging. People who have strong social ties tend to live longer.
Different types of relationships have been described, defined and measured in various ways [8]. These relationships are complex and ambiguous constructs.
Definitions of relationships often focus on the interaction between two people and on positive or negative aspects, with factors varying for each type of relationship.
Good relationships involve being able to trust your partner, feel safe in discussing things that may upset you, and be able to discuss conflict without compromising yourself or each other. They also require a commitment to the relationship and ongoing work on maintaining it.
Healthy relationships are committed to each other in a way that allows them to meet each other’s emotional and physical needs. They are supportive of each other, have a sense of belonging and are not afraid to challenge one another.
Committed, long-term relationships include marriage and civil unions. They are socially and legally binding agreements that offer specific rights and privileges to both parties.
Casual, short-term relationships are less exclusive than traditional monogamous relationships and don’t usually have the same goals or expectations. They can be situational or temporary and may not even be romantically or sexually exclusive.
Certainty and comfort are key to healthy relationships, as they ensure that you have a strong bond with your partner that can help you avoid pain and stress. They also help you to be vulnerable and share your feelings.