Platonic friendships, in particular, are one of the most important types of connections we can have.
What is a platonic friendship?
Think a sister from another mister or a brother from another mother.
Our social connections also allow us to have unique and fulfilling experiences in life.
These relationships are not just possible but can be extremely beneficial for both parties, she notes.
In a mixed-sex platonic relationship, men may feel more at ease to discuss vulnerable topics."
This can be incredibly freeing.
It’s too much to expect from one relationship," says Shannon.
Think of all the energy you’ve ever put into dating and sex.
What if you focused some of that on nurturing and understanding the platonic bonds in your life?
Boundaries in a platonic friendship
The boundaries in a platonic friendship will often vary between different friends.
“Boundaries are flexible and evolving.
They are guidelines, not rules,” says Sylla.
So, it’s all about finding what’s right for you.
Some people are super tactile with their friends, whereas others aren’t.
“I know people who can approach sex in a platonic way,” says Shannon.
Not everyone is wired this way or wants this, but it is possible."
Emotional intimacy in platonic friendships
“This varies greatly!
Each person and each relationship is unique.
For more, check out mbg’s full guide to the differenttypes of friendshipspeople might have in their lives.
Do platonic friends flirt?
This is another one where it really depends on the people involved.
So, it really comes down to comfort levels.
Are you able to flirt without your friendship feeling weird?
What role does flirting play in your life and your friendship?
Are you both on the same page about what your relationship is with each other?
Can platonic friends fall in love?
Falling in love with a friendis definitely possible, confirms Sylla.
But that said, there’s nothing wrong with deciding to trade in your platonic status to start dating.
Platonic crushes
Platonic crushes are the best.
That’s a platonic crush!
Just don’t neglect your existing friendships in the rush!
“Like any friendship, you control how you show up.
“It’s OK to say no, and it’s OK to say yes quite frequently.”
And after stating your preferences, it is important that you also follow your own requests, explains Zrenchik.
Shannon also recommends being honest with yourself about whether youtrulysee this person as a platonic friend.
“I highly recommend choosing not to torture yourself!”
Platonic relationships and asexuality
Asexual peopleare people who have little to no desire to engage in sex.
As such, platonic relationships can play a significant role in their lives.
“Some asexual people have romantic partners, and some still engage in sexual activities.
FAQ:
Does platonic mean you’re in the friend zone?
Platonic friendships are intentional and mutual, and both people honestly want to be friends.
Can a friendship between a man and a woman ever be platonic?
Yes, men and women can absolutely be friends and have that friendship be strictly platonic.
Yes, platonic friends can fall in love.
