Synonyms
Definition
Intimacy can be defined as a process, a type, or a characteristic of interpersonal interaction. Intimate interaction in a romantic relationship includes self-disclosure, positive involvement with the other, listening, and understanding. The level of intimacy depends on a romantic couple’s degree of involvement in their interactions and the type of behavior they engage in.
Intimacy in romantic relationships can be determined by the level of emotional closeness (e.g., communication of understanding, validation, attention, emotional support, and responsiveness), physical closeness (touching, hugging, kissing, cuddling, and sexual intimacy), and cognitive closeness (e.g., sharing thoughts, expectations, beliefs, and communicating feelings openly).
Intimacy is considered one of the key elements of romantic relationships. Multiple studies show that it is one of the strongest predictors of the quality and...
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Wiecha, J. (2023). Intimacy. In: Shackelford, T.K. (eds) Encyclopedia of Sexual Psychology and Behavior. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-08956-5_1240-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-08956-5_1240-1
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