Knowra Romantic relationship Romantic relationship A romantic relationship is an intimate partnership characterized by romantic attraction and often shared commitments. Its forms and expectations vary across people and cultures.
Romantic love : A pattern of emotional and physical attraction, attachment, and care directed toward a romantic partner. Romantic love can motivate the bond, though relationships do not all involve it in the same way.
Relationship formation : The process by which people develop a social relationship through interaction and growing connection. Early attraction and repeated interaction can lead into romantic partnership.
Marriage : A legally or socially recognized union that creates a partnership with defined rights and responsibilities. Marriage is one institution through which romantic partners formalize a commitment.
Platonic love : A form of deep affection and closeness that does not depend on romantic or sexual attraction. It separates intimate affection from romantic partnership.
Intimacy : Closeness marked by emotional openness, trust, and mutual understanding. Intimacy describes a form of closeness partners may develop together.
Social exchange theory : A theory that explains social relationships through perceived rewards, costs, and alternatives. It models how partners evaluate satisfaction and the costs of staying.
Cohabitation : A living arrangement in which partners share a home without being married to each other. Cohabitation can organize shared life without marital status.
Friendship : A voluntary relationship marked by mutual affection, trust, and support. Friendship may share intimacy and care without romantic attraction.
Attachment theory : A psychological framework explaining how early caregiving relationships shape patterns of connection and security. Attachment patterns can influence how partners seek closeness and respond to separation.
Investment model of commitment : A model linking relationship commitment to satisfaction, investments, and the quality of alternatives. It explains why commitment may persist even when satisfaction declines.
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