Barriers in the Initiation of Intimate Heterosexual Relationships and Strategies for Intervention

One problem for which men and women commonly seek help from social workers is difficulty in initiating intimate heterosexual relationships. The lack of a meaningful intimate relationship can lead to feelings of loneliness and distress, which can contribute to more severe problems, such as alcoholism, drug abuse, and suicide. The problems of initiating intimate heterosexual relationships are discussed, including the specific barriers of physical unattractiveness, fear of rejection, shyness, and traditional sex-role norms. Research evidcnce is presented that indicates how people can overcome these barriers and initiate the relationships they desire.