PLATONIC RELATIONSHIPS ARE OFTEN MISUNDERSTOOD AND MISREPRESENTED IN POPULAR CULTURE. Many people associate the term “platonic” with the absence of any romantic or sexual attraction, but this is not entirely accurate. In reality, platonic relationships can be just as intimate and fulfilling as romantic relationships but without any physical or sexual component.
What is a platonic relationship?
Simply put, a platonic relationship is a close friendship between two people that does not involve any romantic or sexual attraction. A platonic relationship focuses on emotional intimacy, shared interests, and mutual support and respect. Platonic relationships can exist between people of any gender or sexual orientation, and they can be just as important and fulfilling as romantic relationships.
Platonic relationships can take many forms. For example, some people have lifelong platonic friendships since childhood or adolescence. Others may form platonic relationships with coworkers, neighbors, or members of a shared interest group. Platonic relationships can also be formed online through social media or other online communities.
Romantic Relationship vs. Platonic Relationship
A platonic relationship is not the same as a romantic relationship. While both types of relationships frequently involve deep friendship and sometimes even love, people in romantic relationships are typically physically intimate, whereas people in platonic relationships do not have sex or physical intimacy.
Physical intimacy (such as hugging, kissing, or touching) or sex with the other person can be desired but not experienced. Even if the desire exists, a platonic relationship exists when there is no physical intimacy or sex between you and the other person.
Symptoms That Your Relationship Is Platonic
A platonic relationship is distinguished from other types of relationships by several characteristics. A platonic relationship is distinguished not only by the absence of a sexual component but also by:
- Closeness: Both partners in the relationship feel close to each other and have things in common.
- Sincerity: Both individuals believe they can share their thoughts and feelings with the other.
- Acceptance: These relationships are easy and comfortable to be in. Both individuals believe they are safe and free to be themselves.
- Understanding: People in a platonic relationship share a connection while also acknowledging and respecting each other’s personal space. They do not try to force the other person to do or be something they do not want to do.
Platonic Relationship Types
There are a few terms that have emerged to describe various types of platonic relationships. These are some examples:
Bromance: A bromance is a close, affectionate, non-sexual relationship between two men.
Womance: This term refers to an emotional, non-sexual, non-romantic bond between two women.
Work spouse: This term refers to a close but non-sexual relationship between colleagues or coworkers that involves bonds and, in some cases, roles similar to those of a marriage.
Benefits of Platonic Relationships
One of the benefits of platonic relationships is that they can provide emotional support and intimacy without the complications and potential pitfalls of romantic relationships. In a platonic relationship, there is no pressure to conform to traditional gender roles or societal expectations around dating and romance. Instead, the focus is building a strong emotional connection based on shared values, interests, and experiences.
Of course, like any relationship, platonic relationships can also face challenges. For example, misunderstandings, miscommunications, and conflicts can arise in any close relationship, and platonic relationships are no exception. However, with open communication and a willingness to work through any issues that arise, platonic relationships can be just as resilient and enduring as romantic relationships.
Advice for a Happy Platonic Relationship
Make the other person do all of the work: Don’t rely on the other person to make all the arrangements or initiate all the contacts. Reach out to them regularly to invite them to activities.
Keep in touch: Call, text, or email the other person on occasion to keep lines of communication open. Tell them you’re thinking of them, share a funny joke you know they’ll enjoy, or simply ask how they’re doing.
Attend to them: Other people can be a valuable source of emotional support, but it is equally important to reciprocate that support. If they need you unexpectedly, be available to help.
In conclusion
A platonic relationship is a close friendship between two people that does not involve any romantic or sexual attraction. Platonic relationships can be just as intimate and fulfilling as romantic relationships but without any physical or sexual component. Platonic relationships can take many forms and provide emotional support and intimacy without the complications and pitfalls of romantic relationships.
