That’s according to developmental psychologist Erik Eriksonand many other psychologists who have taken to his theory.
Here’s what intimacy versus isolation is all about, plus how to create more intimacy in your life.
The psychosocial stages of development.
The stages are as follows:
What is intimacy versus isolation?
The theme of this stage is intimacy, which refers to forming loving and intimate relationships with others.
Adults who successfully complete this stage go on to have healthy, satisfying relationships.
What to know about intimacy.
What does that mean?
“We’re talking about empathy and vulnerabilitythat’s how you cultivate intimacy,” she says.
This is important because it offers us what psychologists callsocial support.
Although people often associate the wordintimacywith sex, sexual intimacy is just one punch in of intimacy.
Intimacy can happen inromantic contextsas well as familial and friendly relationships.
Erikson believed close and intimate relationships in general play a large role in our overall well-being.
Signs of intimacy.
“We can’t bond with others if our identity remains porous or fragmented.
True intimacy necessitates two individualseach with a strong sense of selfchoosing to engage with one another.”
“Any good relationship starts with the emotional and relational piece of intimacy,” she adds.
“So how vulnerable can you be with your partner; how vulnerable can they be with you?”
What to know about isolation.
Isolation occurs from a lack of intimacy.
Oftentimes, isolation can stem from issues surroundingattachment, self-worth or self-image, and intimacy.
How to overcome isolation in a relationship.
Why it’s important.
Without them, we ultimately won’t feel wholly fulfilled.
The bottom line.
Intimacy versus isolation is a lengthy stage and the one that dominates our early adult life.
Over these years, we learn how to havehealthy relationships, both romantic and non-romantic.
