What is the function of emotional bids in maintaining intimacy?

• A. They indicate withdrawal from the relationship
• B. They invite connection; when responded to positively, closeness increases
• C. They are a sign of impending divorce
• D. They have no impact on intimacy

Answer: (B)

Emotional bids are tiny invitations to connect emotionally. Their function is to invite connection; when someone responds positively with warmth, attention, and understanding, the couple’s closeness increases. These moments—whether a shared smile, a supportive comment, or a sincere question about how the day went—are the daily fuel that sustains intimacy, building trust and a sense of safety over time. If bids are ignored or met with criticism or withdrawal, the relationship feels less connected and intimacy can erode. So the best choice captures that bids are invitations to connect and that positive responses strengthen closeness.