The following strategies are commonly used to maintain relational identity and cohesion during extended separation:
1. Communication - Establishing regular communication through various means such as phone calls, text messages, video calls, emails, or letters can help individuals stay connected and maintain their relationship. This includes sharing news, updates, thoughts, feelings, and experiences that keep both parties involved in each other's lives.
2. Intimacy - Maintaining intimacy through physical touch, emotional connection, and even affectionate gestures can help couples feel close despite being physically apart.
Sending gifts or thoughtful messages can create a sense of closeness and show effort to maintain the relationship.
3. Time Management - Planning out dates and activities together can provide structure and motivation for both partners to look forward to meeting again. This can include scheduling weekly or monthly check-ins, planning vacations, or setting goals for the future.
4. Support - Offering support through listening, empathy, and encouragement can strengthen relationships and make the time spent apart more manageable. It is important to be understanding and validate one another's feelings to build trust and respect.
5. Mutual Respect - Maintaining mutual respect by acknowledging differences, accommodating needs, and accepting compromises can prevent resentment from building up and improve understanding between partners. It also shows that each person values the relationship enough to put in effort and work towards resolving conflicts.
6. Self-Care - Taking care of oneself physically, mentally, and emotionally can positively impact the relationship. Engaging in hobbies, exercise, or therapy can reduce stress levels, and improving personal wellbeing can enhance overall happiness.
7. Boundaries - Establishing healthy boundaries such as limiting contact with others, establishing rules for communication frequency, and prioritizing individual interests can promote balance and ensure the relationship remains healthy.
8. Shared Activities - Sharing interests and engaging in shared activities can help couples stay connected while separated. This could involve watching movies or TV shows together, reading books, or playing games online.
9. Patience - Understanding that distance can create tension, frustration, and misunderstandings is essential. Being patient with one another and showing forgiveness when mistakes are made will maintain a positive outlook on the relationship.
10. Affirmations - Expressing gratitude and appreciation for the other person regularly through words or actions can reinforce the relationship and strengthen the bond. It reminds both individuals why they value the relationship and helps them focus on the positive aspects of their connection.
What strategies help maintain relational identity and cohesion during extended separation?
Relational identity refers to the way individuals perceive themselves as members of their social groups. Cohesion is defined as the degree to which group members are bonded together into a unified whole through shared values, experiences, beliefs, goals, and commitments. Research suggests that there are several strategies that can be used to maintain relational identity and cohesion during extended separations.