ROLEPLAYING RELATIONSHIPS
No one ship is exactly the same. Each couple tends to come with their own quirks, their own traditions, their own struggles.
I’ve recently dug up an interesting article that categorizes relationships into 10 different kinds.
Individuation-Assertion relationships
Experimental relationships
Transitional relationships
If you’re interested in using these to help you roleplay a relationship that seems in at least some way, realistic, continue reading.
This is made up of people who don’t feel as if they can survive on their own.
They feel as if they have to have someone be anything. In some cases it may literally be a case of survival.
Think someone who provides shelter, food, job, money etc. It’s important to note that these two are codependent.
The relationship is often hostile and sometimes abusive.
Feelings of insecurity tend to run rampant!
Validation relationships:
People in these relationships are those who seek validation of their physical attractiveness, intellect, social status, sexuality, wealth, or some other attribute.
Teenagers and young adults who are looking for a sense of identity form relationships based on sexual validation.
The relationship tends to be a little insecure and need constant validation.
Seems to be the most perfect of relationships and everyone around them sees it as a great relationship.
The partners are the most perfect boyfriend or the most perfect girlfriend.
There are often power struggles in this type of relationship.
Sexual attraction or involvement if often lacking.
The partners are often stuck in routines.
A trusting, supporting and enjoyable relationship.
A very healthy and happy relationship.
Individuation-Assertion relationships
Both individuals know what the others wants and needs are.
Respect is a key factor in this relationship.
Partners are supportive of others aspirations and dreams
They both recognize their individuality.
NOTE: All types from here on tend to be transient.
These occur after periods of loss, struggle, depression, stress or mourning.
They’re looking for someone to “fix them”
Couples tend to talk about the past and their losses a lot.
Gentleness, support, and comfort characterize this relationship srather than great passion.
Experimental relationships
These are experimental relationships.
Transitional relationships
This is a relationship that is a cross between the kind of relationships you use to have the kind you want.
An “almost but not quite there”
They’re together but not close.
They want to avoid their own deeper feelings.
Don’t want to “get too close”
Self-disclosure is low and mistrust is high.
Just something recreational and for fun and games.
Often emphasis is on fun and not deeper feelings.
One night stands fall under this.
