Fear of intimacy is characterized as the fear of sharing a close physical or emotional relationship with another person.
Learn more about the fear of intimacy, its characteristics, causes, and ways to cope.
Fear of intimacy involves having anxiety about or being afraid of sharing a close connection with another person.
ArtistGNDphotography / E+ / Getty Images
Sharing an emotional intimacy means being comfortable to speak openly about sensitive matters with another person.
This helps both parties feel safe.
Experiential intimacy
Those who share experiential intimacy bond over shared experiences and moments.
This may take the form of inside jokes or sharing memories with each other.
Sharing experiences together can create a sense of closeness and connection.
It does not mean agreeing with the other person or feeling pressured to change one’s own viewpoint.
Spiritual intimacy involves becoming close through a jointly held belief.
This may involve prayer or worship between a couple.
Sexual intimacy
Sexual intimacy involves sharing a close sensual relationship with another person.
They also may struggle with low self-esteem andfear of commitment.
What Causes Fear of Intimacy?
The causes of fear of intimacy can be complex and varied.
Some researchers have suggested that everyone has a fear of intimacy to a certain extent.
Experiences in childhood can determine how an adult trusts other people.
Trauma or Abuse
If any relationship involves abuse or violence, intimacy can be impacted.
Past experiences involving physical, emotional, verbal or sexual abuse can also lead to a fear of intimacy.
Communication Problems
Those who are in relationships marred by communication problems may have problems with intimacy.
This can stem from not feeling well understood.
Some people experience mild traits, while others may not be able to form close relationships at all.
The Fear of Intimacy Scale is one measurement tool that can help therapists objectively assess the condition.
Coping: Navigating Fear of Intimacy in Relationships
Many people experience barriers to intimacy at times.
But if a fear of intimacy is interfering with relationships or daily life, help is available.
Speaking with a relationship counselor or therapist is an important step in helping to overcome a fear of intimacy.
A Word From Verywell
A fear of intimacy can be upsetting, but there is help available.
The Albert Ellis Institute.Dealing with your partner’s fear of intimacy.
Marie Stopes International.4 Types of intimacy that don’t involve sex.
Psychalive.org.Fear of intimacy: understanding why people fear intimacy.
Better Health.Relationships - creating intimacy.
