Intimacy and Affectivity

Intimacy: The Space of Exclusivity

Intimacy is conceptualized as a "shared space of proximity". It is the private territory of the couple where there is direct and honest communication.

What defines intimacy is exclusivity; it is a world to which children, parents and friends do not have access.

It is based on trust and confidentiality. There are two types:

Physical Intimacy: Involves bodily contact, touching, kissing and sexuality.

Mental (or non-physical) Intimacy: This is the deep connection where plans, fears, secrets and dreams are shared.

It includes the ability to be silent together comfortably or to have codes of your own that no one else understands.

If the confidentiality of this space is broken (e.g. telling secrets to third parties), intimacy is fractured.

Shared Affectivity (The Construction of Love)

Affectivity is the dimension we commonly call "love", but technically it is a positive valuation of the other and of oneself within the relationship.

It arises from the interaction between self-knowledge (who I am and what I value) and knowledge of the other.

When my core values (what is important to me in life) align with or are reflected in the qualities of my partner, positive affection is generated.

It is a constant eva luation, "By getting to know you and seeing who you are, I value your presence in my life and this generates rewarding emotions for me."

If the image I have of the other degrades or clashes with my values, affection diminishes.

Therefore, love is not just a spontaneous emotion, but a cognitive and affective construction based on mutual valuation.

Summary

Intimacy is an exclusive space of physical and mental pro