A relationship can be casual or deep, and it often involves some degree of interdependence. In a healthy relationship, people respect each other’s boundaries and are able to talk openly about the things that matter most to them. This is often referred to as “open communication.”
For some, a relationship starts with physical attraction—a person’s eyes, smile, or height. It then moves on to other aspects of a person’s personality, character, or values. These can include their experiences, beliefs, and opinions. People may also be drawn to a person’s energy or personality. They may find their way into a romantic relationship, a platonic friendship, or a work-related team.
The term “soul mate” is sometimes used to describe the ideal partner for a person. For some, this means someone who is supportive and who encourages their goals and dreams. For others, it’s a person who helps them through the highs and lows of life. In either case, relationships like this are known to improve mental health and happiness.
Some couples become stuck in unhealthy dynamics—for example, one person takes on a caretaker role and the other is passive. These types of relationships may be the result of unspoken expectations, or they can develop over time as a couple sweeps problems under the rug and avoids conflict.