Passionate Friendship
Updated:A passionate friendship is an intensely close, emotionally intimate relationship between two people that may resemble a romantic partnership in many ways, but typically does not include sexual activity. These relationships are characterized by a deep emotional bond, strong feelings of affection, and a level of commitment that goes beyond casual friendship.
Additional Information
Passionate friendships can occur between people of any gender or sexual orientation. They often involve physical affection such as hugging, hand-holding, or cuddling, but usually stop short of sexual intimacy. These relationships can sometimes be confusing for those involved or for outside observers, as the line between friendship and romantic love may seem blurred.
Historically, passionate friendships were more common and openly accepted, especially between people of the same gender. In modern times, they may be less recognized or misunderstood due to societal expectations about the nature of close relationships.
Examples
Two best friends who spend most of their free time together, share deep emotional conversations, and feel a strong sense of commitment to each other's well-being.
A pair of friends who consider each other their primary emotional support and prioritize their relationship, even while pursuing romantic relationships with others.