A relationship based on admiration is one that gives both parties involved a sense of pride and accomplishment. It can be achieved through physical attraction, compatibility, shared interests, personality traits, emotional connection, or communication skills.
There are differences between how men and women experience admiration in their romantic partnerships.
Studies have shown that men tend to feel more satisfaction from physical appearance while women tend to focus on character attributes such as kindness and compassion. Sexual admiration refers to the level of desire and appreciation for another person's body parts, size, shape, and/or physique. It involves a deep sense of respect and reverence for someone else's physical form.
Long-term relational self-esteem
Long-term relational self-esteem is the feeling of being valued, appreciated, loved, accepted, desired, and important within a relationship. This esteem comes from positive interactions, mutual support, reciprocity, commitment, compromise, trust, intimacy, and open communication. When sexual admiration exists, it boosts long-term relational self-esteem because both partners recognize each other's value and beauty. They see themselves as attractive individuals who make each other feel good inside and out. With this viewpoint, they gain confidence in their relationship and develop a healthy bond with each other. Without sexual admiration, however, long-term relational self-esteem may diminish over time due to lack of validation, neglect, conflict, and dissatisfaction. One partner may feel unworthy, unwanted, or undervalued which leads to resentment and withdrawal.
Perceived mutual value
Perceived mutual value means having a high regard for oneself and one's romantic partner. It arises when both parties feel equally validated and supported by each other. Sexual admiration plays an essential role in fostering this perception. A couple that sees each other as beautiful and desirable will likely have more positive views about the union than those who don't. The latter group may doubt their ability to keep their partner happy, contented, and satisfied for the long haul.
Sexual attraction can provide a sense of security and stability within the relationship while also encouraging individual growth and development. In its absence, people may question why they are together and whether they can stay committed for life.
How does the presence or absence of sexual admiration influence long-term relational self-esteem and perceived mutual value?
A recent study investigated the impact of sexual attraction on long-term relational self-esteem and perceived mutual value. The researchers found that individuals who reported high levels of initial sexual desire were more likely to experience lower levels of satisfaction in their relationships over time than those who did not report such high levels of initial sexual attraction. This finding suggests that focusing too much on sexual admiration can lead to reduced feelings of security and connection within a relationship.