PH
Becoming a couple doesn't require combining every friendship into one shared social circle.
Maintaining independent friendships can provide social support, individual experiences, and space for personal identity outside the relationship.
Problems can arise when independence becomes secrecy or when one partner attempts to isolate the other from supportive relationships.
A strong relationship can include “our friends,” “your friends,” and “my friends.”
Closeness doesn't require eliminating individuality.
© American Psychological Association