Queerplatonic attraction is a type of connection that goes beyond typical friendship without being romantic or sexual. It involves a desire for a close, committed bond with someone special. Queerplatonic relationships; also called quasiplatonic, quirkyplatonic, or simply QPRs; are unique in having clear expectations, structure, and norms that set them apart from conventional friendships and bring them closer in some ways to romantic partnerships.
Sam has a queerplatonic partner named Jamie. Their bond goes beyond friendship but doesn’t feel romantic either. Sam and Jamie support each other through life’s challenges and celebrate milestones together, creating a meaningful partnership. One day, they decided to move in together, sharing responsibilities and creating a home. While others might see them as a couple, Sam and Jamie define their connection as queerplatonic, as it involves deep commitment without romance. For them, this bond means companionship that is as strong as a romantic relationship, built on mutual respect, trust, and shared goals. They enjoy the security and joy of having someone by their side, even if it doesn’t follow traditional romantic expectations. Their queerplatonic bond gives them the best of both worlds: a life partner with whom they share love and commitment, without needing a romantic element.
Queerplatonic attraction is defined not by the absence of romance or sexuality but by the intensity of connection and closeness that surpasses typical friendship boundaries. These relationships vary widely based on the personal preferences and boundaries of those involved. Queerplatonic relationships can also be non-exclusive or polyamorous, allowing one person to have more than one queerplatonic partner simultaneously. The intimacy in a queerplatonic relationship is defined by mutual comfort and consent. Common forms of queerplatonic intimacy might include living together, co-parenting, platonic marriage, cuddling, hand-holding, kissing, or even sharing a bed.
A queerplatonic desire for someone might be referred to as a “squish” (a term also used for platonic attraction), though less commonly as a “plush” or “squash.”
Queerplatonic relationships often face misunderstanding or lack of recognition in mainstream society. Others may mistake these relationships for romantic or sexual partnerships or see them as ordinary friendships, leading to possible discrimination or invalidation. Queerplatonic partners might also struggle with finding legal or social validation, prompting the need for open communication about their expectations and relationship boundaries.
History
The term “queerplatonic” originated within the aromantic and asexual communities as a way to name and affirm meaningful relationships that did not fit into the traditional romantic or sexual models. Queerplatonic relationships offer an alternative to the assumption that everyone seeks romantic or sexual relationships and challenge common cultural understandings of commitment and intimacy. People who identify as bisexual, pansexual, polyamorous, or queer may also find appeal in queerplatonic relationships because of the flexibility and diversity they offer in expressing affection and connection.
Queerplatonic partners are sometimes called QPPs (queerplatonic partners), mallowfriends or marshmallowfriends, or zucchinis.
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Sources
- aromanticnerd. “darkmetinenephelae-deactivated2 said,” Tumblr. Accessed April 28, 2023. Link
- DiveThru Team. “What Does A Queerplatonic Relationship Look Like?” DiveThru, November 15, 2022. Link
- kaz. “A/romanticism.” Kaz’s Scribblings, December 24, 2010. Link
- realsesmith. “WORD OF THE DAY: QUEERPLATONIC.” Wandering Stars, January 22, 2011. Link
- Team Lovepanky. “Queerplatonic Relationship: What It Is & 25 Signs You’re In One.” LovePanky. Accessed April 28, 2023. Link
- Sciatrix. “My Thoughts on the Word ‘Zucchini.’” writingfromfactorx, July 11, 2011. Link
- Wear Your Voice. “PLUSH:” Twitter, October 26, 2019. Link
Source
https://new.lgbtqia.wiki/wiki/queerplatonic_attraction_and_orientation