When most people use the term “relationship,” they are referring to some form of intimacy, emotional attachment, or commitment. People can have relationships with many different types of people, including family and friends. They can also have different kinds of relationships with each other, ranging from casual dating to marriage.
The most common type of relationship is a romantic one. It involves some level of physical intimacy, a commitment to each other, and often exclusive sexual behavior, such as monogamy. In romantic relationships, people may refer to themselves as boyfriend or girlfriend and use other identifiers such as partner, lover, or spouse.
A healthy, secure relationship is based on trust and mutual respect. People in a good relationship can share their deepest needs and self-doubts without fear of rejection. They can rely on each other to meet their needs, and they know that they can ask for help when needed. They can also have respectful disagreements and resolve problems without humiliation or degradation.
In addition to being honest, a good relationship requires frequent, affectionate touch—holding hands, hugs, and kisses. This contact can increase the levels of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding and attachment. It also helps to alleviate stress and anxiety. In a good relationship, partners work together to face obstacles and challenges and support each other’s goals and dreams. Loyalty is also a key component of a good relationship, and being unfaithful can destroy it. The bottom line is that a good relationship makes you happy and gives you the energy to be your best self.