“From Romania, with Love”. An Oral History Study on Personal Relationships in Contemporary Romania
“From Romania, with Love”. An Oral History Study on Personal Relationships in Contemporary Romania

Summary/Abstract: This article examines the intersection of romantic love, marriage, and societal influences, focusing on Romania and drawing on multiple studies and interviews. The goal is to analyze respondents’ opinions on the definition of romantic relationships, their perspectives on non-marital romantic relationships, and the connection between love and family. Among the most important sources utilized are works by American psychologist Robert Sternberg, Romanian sociologist and historian Constantin Schifirneț, Romanian psychologist Alin Gavreliuc, Romanian sociologist Septimiu Chelcea, as well as numerous international studies on this subject. The article highlights how romantic love, often considered a universal concept, plays varying roles across different cultures and societies. Interviews with Romanian millennials suggested that while romantic love is valued among them, marriage is no longer viewed as essential for a successful relationship. Respondents described love primarily through emotional connection and mutual respect rather than through idealized passion. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about the evolving nature of romantic relationships, cultural variability, and the importance of love in life fulfillment, highlighting how perspectives on marriage and romantic love are shifting in contemporary society.

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