
Physical distance doesn't automatically translate into emotional distance.
Research on long-distance relationships has found that couples can maintain surprisingly high levels of intimacy despite spending less time physically together.
One reason may involve idealization and more intentional communication.
When opportunities to communicate are limited, conversations can become more deliberate and personally meaningful.
Of course, distance also creates genuine challenges.
But being physically together every day isn't the only route to emotional closeness.
Sometimes having less access to someone makes the moments of connection feel more significant.
© Journal of Communication