Friendships can undergo significant changes when one of the friends begins a romantic relationship. According to psychoanalyst Christian Richomme and psychologist Carine Grzesiak, a friend who enters a relationship may become less available, responding less to invitations and sharing fewer updates. This shift can create a sense of distance, with the friend increasingly using "we" and "one" rather than "I" when communicating. While some may initially believe this is a temporary phase, the distance can become more pronounced over time.
Entering a relationship may require finding a new balance to maintain other relationships. However, some individuals may prioritize their romantic relationship over friendships, potentially leading to the neglect of friendships. According to Richomme, a healthy relationship should include space for the individual, the partner, and others. The beginning of a romantic relationship can create confusion and temporarily unbalance one's surroundings, as the partner may become the center of attention.
Grzesiak notes that it is important to give time and space for the new relationship to develop, but prolonged absence from friendships can be a cause for concern. The disappearance of a friend in a relationship can be linked to various factors, such as a need for security or affective dependency, where emotional validation is primarily derived from the partner. For some, the relationship may be seen as a goal, with friendships considered a transitional phase until the right partner is found.
Richomme highlights that societal values often prioritize romantic success over friendly success. Additionally, personal factors such as character, education, and attachment dynamics can influence how individuals view and prioritize relationships. The concept of love can be highly personal, with some seeking security through fusion in a romantic relationship, while others find it through multiple bonds.
Despite individual differences in prioritizing friendships and relationships, it is important to recognize that both can coexist. Friendships are valuable for psychological balance, helping to build and maintain identity and ensuring biographical continuity. Retreating completely into a romantic relationship can lead to a lack of diversity in one's social life, potentially causing emotional impoverishment. Friends can be seen as the invisible roots of a tree, providing stability during difficult times.
Changes in Friendships After Romantic Relationships
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