Relationship development: Psychology identifies several stages like falling in love, satiety, rejection, acceptance, respect, friendship and love. It is really not easy to build a strong relationship. After all, the path to true love goes through several stages, at each of which the feelings of the couple are tested for strength. And only if people are suitable for each other, as well as agree to work on themselves, invest time and effort in the relationship, they will be able to achieve success. About the seven main stages of a relationship, as well as how to prepare for possible difficulties at each of them, in the article. 

Stage 1: Falling in love

Psychologists divide relationships into seven stages. Although some simplified models suggest only three or five stages. And so the initial stage, falling in love, is characterized by euphoria and strong emotions. And according to anthropologist Helen Fisher, this stage is driven by the physiological need for a mate and is associated with the hormones dopamine and oxytocin. Which produce sensations similar to those experienced when using cocaine or sugar. Falling in love happens within a fifth of a second. This was noted by Lisa Diamond and Jeanne Dickenson in their study on the neuroimaging of love and desire. So in this stage of a relationship, people often don’t notice their partner’s flaws and feel like they can’t live without them.

Stage 2: saturation in the relationship

In the second stage of a relationship, the intense hormonal influence wanes. And partners begin to look at each other more realistically. Therefore, they recognize their personal interests and hobbies, which leads therefore the interaction becomes less emotionally intense. Conflicts and disagreements can arise as the initial admiration fades. And partners need to establish rules for their relationship.

Stage 3: Rejection

The rejection stage of a relationship is very conflictual and often leads to relationship breakdown or divorce. Frederic Begbeder’s novel “Love Lasts Three Years” reflects this stage. Therefore, successfully passing through this stage by learning to negotiate and accept each other will lead to a new, happier stage of life.

Stage 4: Acceptance

At this stage of the relationship, the partners have the opportunity to truly understand and accept each other. Therefore, this stage involves mutually recognizing each other’s qualities and needs, working on personal growth, and seeking compromise. Acceptance lays the foundation for a harmonious relationship and deeper love.

Stage 5: Restoring Respect

Achieving mutual respect is an important stage. Respect is crucial for emotional fulfillment and maintaining a healthy relationship. As Monica Bellucci emphasized, love thrives where there is respect and freedom. Emerson Eggerich’s book Love and Respect also explains that mutual respect helps both partners get what they want out of the relationship.

Stage 6: Friendship

Friendship marks a period of growing trust and intimacy in the relationship. This is where partners intuitively understand each other. And this stage emphasizes on maintaining the romantic aspect. It is quality time spent, fair play, open discussions and mutual affection. Therefore, friendship is the foundation for deep and lasting love.

Stage 7: Love

Reaching the love stage means a successful, lasting partnership. Partners in a relationship solve problems together and support each other. And foster individual growth while sharing common goals. Therefore, the characteristics of this stage are gratitude, unwavering commitment. As well as mutual support and personal freedom in the union. This stage is not the end, but an ongoing journey to deeper understanding and happiness.

Duration of the stages of a relationship

There is no fixed time frame for each stage as they vary from person to person. Falling in love usually lasts up to six months. On average, each stage lasts 1-3 years. It can take anywhere from five years to a decade to fully go through all the stages. People may fall in love several times in their lives, each time going through these stages on the way to true love. Achieving lasting love takes time, effort, and genuine concern for each other.