Redefining Relationships

Hello! This is an exploratory questionnaire about human connections.

Throughout our lives, we form bonds with many people. Some connections have clear labels—like family, friends, or partners. But many others are profound and real, yet difficult to name. These connections exist in the spaces between traditional categories, forming a crucial, albeit hard-to-define, part of our emotional world.

Meanwhile, the rise of AI and virtual worlds is creating new possibilities for "relationship."

This survey aims to listen to your genuine experiences and thoughts about these complex, fluid, or emerging connections. There are no right or wrong answers—your honest perspective is what matters most. This survey is completely anonymous. Thank you for your participation!

1. Age(Chronological or felt age is fine)

2. Gender

WomanManNon-binaryPrefer not to say

Part 1: Connections That Defy Labels

In your life, have you ever experienced a relationship that was important to you (perhaps not overwhelmingly so, but significant), yet you found it difficult to describe accurately to others using common labels like "friend," "family," "colleague," or "partner"?

Yes, I clearly remember having one (or several) such relationship(s)No, I don't seem to have had oneI'm not sure; my feelings about some relationships are ambiguous

If such a relationship exists (or did exist) for you, which metaphors best capture its core feeling? (You may select multiple)

A mind-meld: Like conversing with a "mirror self," enabling deep intellectual sparring and spiritual resonance.An unfinished book: Complex, mysterious, full of potential, and hard to define.A timeless film: Creates a deep emotional understanding and resonance, like a movie you can watch endlessly.A coded letter: You feel profoundly understood and recognized, as if you're the only one who can decipher a secret message.A safety net: Provides a solid foundation that gives you the courage to take risks.A secret base: Offers a sense of absolute privacy and security.Shared silence: Like sitting together quietly in a library, feeling calm and companionable without words.· A cleansing storm: Involves conflict, but everything feels clearer and more authentic afterward.Other (please describe your own metaphor or feeling)

Part 2: The Inner World – Emotional Complexity

In your deep relationships, how often do you experience two opposing emotions simultaneously? (e.g., feeling both dependent and wanting independence, deeply admiring yet occasionally jealous, intimately close yet strangely distant)

Frequently; I believe this is a sign of a profound connectionOccasionally, but it's manageable and normalRarely; the emotions in my relationships are usually more straightforward and stableThis ambiguity worries me, and I tend to avoid it

Part 3: The Outer World – Social Norms & Expectations

To what extent do you feel pressure from others (e.g., family, friends, societal norms) about what your relationships "should" look like, leading them to label your ambiguous connections?

Where does this pressure mainly come from?

Significant pressure, mainly from:Mild pressure, but it doesn't greatly affect meBasically no pressure; I feel free to define my relationships as I see fit

Part 4: The Passage of Time – How Relationships Evolve

Looking back, have your important relationships significantly changed in nature or closeness due to life circumstances? (e.g., growing apart from a childhood friend due to distance/life stages, estrangement from family after a major event)

Yes, and these changes have been a source of sadness or trouble for meYes, but I accept it as a natural part of how relationships evolveNo, my core relationships have remained very stable

How do you view this "fluidity" or "phasic" nature of relationships?

It's a regret, representing loss and failureIt's a natural process of growth and evolution; while bittersweet, it's acceptableIt can be a relief, allowing relationships to develop more freelyOther:

Part 5: What Are We Truly Seeking in Relationships?

Please describe your ideal state of connection in a relationship, using any form you prefer (a word, phrase, or metaphor).

10.

If we break down the functions a relationship can serve, which do you find most important in contemporary society? (Please choose 1-3)

Non-judgmental listening ＆ emotional resonanceStable companionship ＆ a sense of presenceIntellectual stimulation ＆ mutual growthPractical support ＆ resource sharing in daily lifeAbsolute trust and securityRespect for personal space and freedomOther:

Part 6: Envisioning the Future of Connection

11.

If you could invent a new name for a currently undefined type of meaningful relationship (non-romantic), what would you call it?

12.

Do you believe society should provide some level of legal recognition and protection for important non-familial/non-marital relationships? (e.g., long-term cohabiting platonic friends, non-marital co-parents, for rights like medical visitation, inheritance, tenancy)

Yes, absolutely. The value and stability of relationships shouldn't be recognized only through marriage.Perhaps, but this is very complex and needs careful consideration.No. Marriage/family serves a unique social function and shouldn't be diluted.Other:

13.

With advances in AI, some people form deep connections with AI companions, virtual characters, or smart assistants. Have you ever confided in an AI or virtual character during moments when you couldn't or didn't want to turn to a human, seeking some form of solace or understanding?

Yes,frequently.Yes,occasionally.Never.

14.

What is your perspective on the phenomenon described in the previous question?

A healthy supplement: It offers a safe, controlled space for ideal responses that might be hard to find elsewhere.A neutral tool: Its value depends entirely on how it's used.A complex signal: It reflects both genuine human needs and the challenges of modern connection.Other:

更多問卷復制此問卷