ABSTRACT
A romantic relationship is a relationship that is distinguished by its intense, ardent emotional attachment, usually accompanied by a sexual relationship. In the intimacy stage of a relationship, both individuals experience and express devotion, dedication, and responsibility to each other. Sometimes our relationships with acquaintances can evolve into friendship as the interactions increase in both quantity and quality. A much more intense kind of relationship than that of acquaintance, friend, or even family. The familiarity, depth of knowledge, and commitment are far more significant than in the relating stage. The relating stage comprises casual friendships, whereas the intimacy stage defines those relationships where the loss of the individual is marked by grief and pain, bringing about significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes. In both the relating and intimate levels of relationship, there will be times of conflict and even crisis.
