Authenticity, work and change

A qualitative study on couple intimacy

Bibliographic Data

ID13009387
AuthorsLuana Ferreira (0000-0001-8406-3997, University of Coimbra, corresponding author), Isabel Narciso (0000-0003-0787-7203, University of Lisbon), Rosa F Novo (0000-0002-4670-6987, University of Lisbon)
Year2013
Volume2
Issue3
Pages339-354
Publication date2013-11-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueFamilies Relationships and Societies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2046-7435 • E-ISSN: 2046-7443
PublisherPolicy Press (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1332/204674313x668569
OpenAlexW2090490103
LanguageEN
Citations received12

Using the lenses of systemic family psychology and family sociology, this study explores the meanings of couple intimacy and the factors that have an impact on it. Through the qualitative analysis of 33 joint couple interviews, several links were found between current intimacy debates (ie, togetherness versus autonomy), which help to build a complex picture of relationship dynamics. The participants’ perspectives provided three important results. First, couple intimacy was perceived as encompassing authenticity, sharing and trust, along with privacy, understanding and autonomy. Second, factors that have a negative impact on couple intimacy were related to the calibration of boundaries with other subsystems (especially work). Third, changing the everyday routine of couple life is the factor that influences intimacy in a most positive manner. These results allow us to provide a theoretical complexification and an empirical update of couple intimacy, as well as to contribute with relevant clues for couple therapy and preventive systemic interventions

Autonomy · Epistemology · Everyday life · Intervention (counseling · Psychological intervention · Qualitative research · Sociology · Attachment and Relationship Dynamics · Psychology · Social Psychology

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