Intimacy and Relationships

One of our basic human needs is to experience a sense of connection with another human being. We want to be known, accepted, valued, and wanted. Intimacy is the degree that we feel emotionally close and connected with someone. Intimacy exists in a relationship when personal information and feelings are shared and there is high regard for each other. When couples lack intimacy they do not trust each other with their most vulnerable feelings and thoughts. As a protection, they build walls which create resentment and distance in the relationship. This causes problems in the couple’s’ communication, and in their sex life. It also limits their capacity to resolve conflict, which is key to creating the intimacy they desire in the relationships.