For the attributes provided in this theory (Emotional, Physical and Sexual), relationships can be broken down into three different levels. The levels are determined based on the amount of needs expected from each relationship.
Level 1 relationships only satisfy one attribute of relationships.
Emotional or Physical or Sexual
Level 2 relationships satisfy two attributes.
E+P or P+S or S+P
Level 3 relationships satisfy all three attributes.
E+P+S
This is not a definitive list. This is just a framework for how to identify and define the relationships in your life.Level 1 Relationships
All relationships start out in level one. The initial interaction between two individuals is to satisfy one need. Level 1 relationships can be intentional, such as seeking out a hobby. However, some level 1 relationships are implied such as the relationship between drivers on the road. Initially, when we interact with people there is a degree of commitment but only for the immediate interaction. It is important that we do not require commitment in Level 1 in order to allow people to flow naturally in and out of our lives. Acknowledging this lack of commitment encourages us to expand our network in ways that meet our ever changing needs for existence. Here are some examples of the different relationships and what need they satisfy.
Level 2 Relationships
After establishing a Level 1 relationship, that relationship can then progress to a Level 2 relationship. Typically, this progression happens naturally and without much thought. But to move from a level 1 to a level 2, there has to be commitment on both parties. Without that commitment, both attributes cannot be met, reverting it back to a Level 1 when one of the needs for an individual are not fulfilled.
Level 3 Relationships
The final level of relationships is a Level 3 relationship. This relationship satisfies all three attributes. Again, a commitment is required to honor these attributes in the people involved in this level of relationship. If the attributes are not being met/honored, then it will demote the relationship to either a level 2 and level 1, even if the relationship has verbally “committed” to each other as a Level 3.
