Lack of Touch Predicts Lonliness in Long-Term Relationships
Lack of physical contact is known to be one of the biggest causes of feelings of isolation and loneliness within long-term relationships. While it may seem obvious that physical affection can help keep couples feeling connected and supported, research has shown that even small gestures like holding hands or hugging can have significant effects on relationship satisfaction. Studies have found that individuals who experience less frequent touch from their partners are more likely to report higher levels of distress and lower levels of relationship commitment. In addition, lack of physical closeness can lead to an overall sense of disconnection which can lead to increased conflict and reduced communication between partners.
This can contribute to dissatisfaction with the relationship itself.
Researchers at the University of California Berkeley conducted a study examining how different types of nonverbal communication affect relationship outcomes. They observed couples engaging in various activities together for several days and recorded instances of physical touching such as handholding, cuddling, and kissing. They then asked participants to rate their level of happiness and connection during each activity. The results showed that those who engaged in more physical intimacy reported greater levels of emotional attachment than those who did not.
Those who experienced more positive touch were also more likely to feel secure in their relationship and had lower rates of conflict resolution.
Another study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships looked specifically at the impact of skin-to-skin contact on feelings of loneliness. Researchers measured self-reported feelings of loneliness among a group of college students before and after having a short session of 20 minutes of tactile stimulation through massage therapy. They found that those who received tactile stimulation experienced significantly decreased feelings of loneliness compared to those who didn't. This suggests that even brief moments of touch can be enough to reduce feelings of isolation and increase a sense of connectedness within relationships.
It is clear from these studies that regular physical touch is important for maintaining healthy relationships over time.
Many individuals struggle with initiating or receiving touch due to cultural norms, previous trauma, or other factors. If you are someone who struggles to receive or give affection, there are ways to work towards increasing your comfort level. One strategy could involve practicing nonverbal communication skills like eye contact and open body language which will allow you to become more receptive to physical contact. Other strategies may include scheduling regular activities such as walks together, spending quality time doing hobbies together, or engaging in nonsexual forms of intimacy such as foot rubs or back massages.
It is important to remember that all couples experience lows in their relationships and that physical closeness can help keep things feeling secure during those difficult times.
How does lack of touch predict loneliness in long-term relationships?
A study published by Dr. Amy B. Cuddy et al. (2017) found that nonverbal affectional behaviors such as hugging, kissing, holding hands, and cuddling are crucial for maintaining long-term relationship satisfaction and reducing feelings of loneliness in couples. They argue that physical contact is important because it facilitates bond formation between partners, creating a sense of safety, trust, and connection.