Intimacy, whether romantic or platonic, requires a high degree of vulnerability from both parties involved. When intimacy takes a backseat to stressful situations such as work, family issues, finances, health problems, or social pressures, it can lead to serious psychological consequences for both individuals.
When intimacy is subordinated to external stressors, it can cause emotional isolation and disconnection between partners. This can result in feelings of loneliness, depression, anxiety, and even resentment towards one another. The lack of emotional support and validation during difficult times can also have a negative impact on self-esteem and self-worth, leading to lower levels of overall well-being.
When intimacy is subordinated to external stressors, it can create an imbalance in the relationship where one partner feels like they are taking on more of the burden than the other.
Another potential risk that emerges when intimacy is subordinated to external stressors is a decrease in trust. Trust is essential in any close relationship, but it becomes especially crucial when couples face challenges together. If one partner consistently prioritizes their outside obligations over time spent with their significant other, it may signal to the other person that they do not value the relationship enough to make time for them. This can erode trust and damage the foundation of the relationship.
When intimacy is subordinated to external stressors, communication often suffers. Partners may find themselves avoiding important conversations about their needs and desires due to the pressure of other responsibilities. This can lead to misunderstandings, miscommunication, and eventually resentment. It can be difficult to build emotional closeness without open and honest communication, so this habit can be particularly damaging to relationships.
It's worth noting that there are situations where intimacy cannot always be prioritized over external stressors, such as illness or financial hardship.
These circumstances should only be temporary, and partners should work together to ensure that they maintain some level of intimacy and connection even during trying times. It's also vital to seek help from professionals if necessary to manage stress levels and improve overall well-being.
Prioritizing intimacy in a relationship requires effort and intentionality. When intimacy is continually subordinated to external stressors, it can have serious psychological consequences for both individuals involved. By recognizing the importance of intimacy and finding ways to balance it with outside pressures, couples can strengthen their bond and preserve their emotional health.
What psychological risks emerge when intimacy is always subordinated to external stressors?
Research suggests that excessive prioritization of external stressors over intimate relationships can have several psychological implications. In particular, individuals who constantly put their work or other commitments above spending time with loved ones may experience feelings of loneliness, reduced self-esteem, and decreased overall well-being (Crosnoe & Elder, 2015).