The silent threat of parallel partnerships in modern relationships
In today's fast-paced world, increasing numbers of couples function within a relationship model known as a "parallel partnership." Although they jointly manage the home, children, and careers, their relationship becomes purely functional, and a deeper emotional bond and intimacy begin to fade away.
A parallel relationship is one where partners live side by side but rarely connect on an emotional or intimate level. They collaborate as a team in managing daily responsibilities, but they lack the opportunities to build shared experiences, have meaningful conversations, or express their feelings.
The commitment framework
In an interview with Newsweek, Psychotherapist Rachel Marmor explained that such dynamics can infiltrate a relationship, especially when partners are coping with the demands of parenting, careers, and running a household. By focusing solely on duties, they may fail to notice that their relationship has transformed into a purely practical arrangement.
"Every couple needs to figure out how to keep the family going but when the connection between partners is limited to logistics, as if 'Who's picking up the kids?' or, 'Did you pay the bills?', the deeper emotional and physical intimacy starts to fade," she emphasised.
Psychotherapist Kate Engler, discussing this issue in an interview with "Newsweek," pointed out that living "in separation" can become routine, particularly for couples raising children.
"It appears fair because things are split up between people, but in mixed-gender marriages, the woman is almost always holding more of the load," she stated.
"This imbalance—and a sense of powerlessness to change it—leads people to parallel partnership," she added.
Why are "parallel relationships" dangerous?
Although it may seem at first that such an arrangement works, the lack of emotional involvement leads to a weakening of the bond between partners. In the long term, this can result in frustration, a sense of loneliness within the relationship, and even its breakdown.
Experts emphasise that emotional and physical closeness are crucial for a healthy relationship. Without them, partners may begin to view each other only as housemates or coworkers, rather than as individuals who are close to one another.
