A relationship is basically a cycle of the complicated process running
over a due course of time. It gradually leads to a concrete substantial
form. Somewhere between exchanging those first glances and dividing household
chores, there is a very interesting process. A step-by-step development
of mutual trust, respect, love, and responsibility. From obsessing over a
potential romance to finding a safe comfort zone with your long-term partner.
Let’s unravel the various stages of relationship development every couple goes
through before they seal the deal with a ring. These stages can vary from
person to person and the tenacity. And also the time period each couple, spends
in each of these development phases depends on the individual.
However, at the end of the day, it all breaks down to these four basic stages of relationship development.
1. Attraction
This is basically the stage of curiosity where the two potential
partners initially meet and get to know each other. Whether a match is made in
heaven or not is debatable but they need to meet and begin somewhere. Often
this meeting happens via friends, family, social groups, a party or as more
prevalent these days, over the internet. Different scenarios cater to different
ways of knowing each other. If there is just enough curiosity and attraction,
people take it over to the next stage.
2. Romance
Once two people get to know each other and are attracted to each other,
the lingering curiosity and sexual tension lead to romance. Initial attractions
are more or less on physical appearance and basic character attributes. Romance
is a stage where the couple treads into deeper waters by trying to know each
other better. They spend more time with each other, unraveling each
other’s secrets and get comfortable with their habits and likings. This stage
is about trying to impress each other, finding out if the other can be a
potential long-term partner.
3. Intimacy &
Being a couple
This is a stage which is the make or break phase of a long-term
relationship. The two potential partners have been with each other for a
substantial amount of time. They start noticing the little flaws and
drawbacks – yes every relationship has some! Certain little habits do not seem
‘cute’ anymore. And this phase also brings about a lot of complaints and
contradictions. Fights happen but that does not deter the couple from getting
very involved with each other. This is a stage where they intimacy is at the
utmost. It also shows how much effort an individual is willing to put in the
relationship even during hard times. Along with a lot of complications,
self-disclosure emerges with the differences. Gradually it gives rise to the
most important question for couples in this phase – “Where is this going?”.
With all the perpetual cards laid out, both positive and negative, this is
where a couple takes their time. It is now they decide whether they
should take their relationship to the next level or not. This phase is usually
longer and it should be as it is not a wise decision to jump or rush into a decision
that.
4. Commitment
By now, couples have a clear understanding of each other – their
lifestyle, ethics, nature, quirks and relationship goals. Couples who make it
to this stage have already found stability and comfort with each other
irrespective of their flaws. They realize that every relationship has
shortcomings and that is perfectly fine.
Love is a two-faced coin. If falling in love is one aspect, maintaining it strong
and healthy is the other important aspect. But stages of relationship
development has to navigate through the above process before settling.
