2 Of The Most Valuable Aspects Of Being In A Relationship
Nothing quite matches the feeling of true, lasting love. Here's two of the best parts of it.
By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | December 23, 2024
Romantic relationships have a special way of enriching our lives through intimate companionship and connection. For many, the desire to find a partner stems from the hope of sharing life's journey, with all of its triumphs, struggles and quiet moments, with someone who is there for both the highs and the lows.
A 2023 study published in Evolutionary Psychology examined the primary reasons behind seeking out romantic connections and what people find most beneficial about them. Researchers found that long-term relationships tend to have specific qualities that make them deeply fulfilling, regardless of one's age or gender.
Here's what people tend to value most about being in a relationship, according to the study.
1. Being 'Loved Right' In Relationships
One of the biggest draws of a long-term relationship is the experience of feeling deeply loved and cared for. Healthy love is not obsessive, but reliable, balanced and uplifting, and many long for such a dynamic. This also involves feeling loved in the way one needs—be it through words, actions or quality time.
Participants of the study report that being in a committed relationship allows them to experience more positive emotions, such as love and passion, while also reducing feelings of loneliness. They highlighted several aspects of this, including the joy of shared activities, the warmth of affection and the comfort of having a steady partner by your side.
In fact, a 2019 study published in Evolutionary Psychological Science found that those in relationships often report higher life satisfaction and fewer negative emotions compared to those who are involuntarily single.
A notable aspect of such relationships is the sense of company they provide. Loneliness, which is now something of a modern epidemic, can take a toll on mental and physical health. Humans are inherently social creatures, and having someone to share your thoughts with, discuss life's challenges and simply spend time with fulfills a core emotional need to belong.
Additionally, while not the primary reason for seeking long-term relationships, the study found that regular, safe and fulfilling sexual experiences ranked as a significant benefit. Beyond pleasure, this aspect of intimacy likely reinforces emotional closeness and trust, creating deeper relationship satisfaction.
2. Receiving Unconditional Support From A Partner
Another cornerstone of the allure of relationships is the sense of unconditional support. Whether it's emotional, practical or financial, having a partner to lean on can make life's challenges feel more manageable.
Researchers found that nearly 93% of participants identified support as a significant benefit of being in a relationship. This can include having someone who provides comfort during difficult times, shares daily responsibilities and offers encouragement in pursuing goals.
Many participants appreciated the tangible benefits of a partnership, such as sharing expenses and alleviating financial stress. While this may not be as important to individuals who are highly financially independent, it highlights how relationships can adapt to meet the unique needs of each partner.
For others, the emotional support—knowing someone is there to listen, care and advocate for them—is life-changing. The importance of feeling truly seen and supported can't be understated. Whether it's cheering on each other's personal growth or simply being there to share the load, support is the backbone of any thriving relationship.
Of course, this is a two-way street. Researchers suggest that couples find value in relationships by both giving and receiving care, creating a cycle of mutual appreciation that fuels long-term connection.
Understanding what partners value most in a relationship can help create a bond that nurtures these very qualities. When approached with care and intention, relationships become spaces where we can be our authentic selves, share our joys and burdens and grow alongside someone who truly values us.
Are you in a deeply loving and supportive relationship? Take this science-backed test to find out: Lovebird Scale
A similar version of this article can also be found on Forbes.com, here.