Relationships are a journey; almost everyone strives for a healthy, fun and loving one.
With social media, the qualities of a good relationship are pretty well-known: words like “trust,” “communication,” and “honesty” echo through the Internet like mantras. But how do you know when you’ve genuinely gotten there?
Curious about the mix of qualities that indicate someone has achieved the perfect relationship, Newsweek asked the generative AI tool ChatGPT to outline the elements of its understanding of a “perfect” relationship.
We submitted the following prompt: “You are a relationship expert. Define a perfect romantic relationship in five qualities.”
Photo-illustration by Newsweek
Qualities of a perfect relationship, according to ChatGPT
ChatGPT proposed a list of five elements crucial to its conception of the perfect relationship. Some, like communication and trust, are expected, while others might not be one’s first thought.
The five factors, as suggested by the AI tool, are listed below:
Mutual Respect
Each person values and honors the other’s individuality, boundaries and opinions. They listen to each other, appreciate differences and show consideration in their actions and words.
Effective Communication
Both partners are open, honest and empathetic in their communication. They actively listen, express their feelings and needs clearly, and work through conflicts constructively.
Trust and Reliability
Trust forms the foundation of their connection. Each partner is dependable, keeps their promises and is transparent, fostering a sense of security and confidence in the relationship.
Shared Values and Goals
They align on core values and life goals, which helps them navigate decisions and challenges together. This shared vision provides a sense of unity and purpose in their journey together.
Emotional Support and Affection
They offer consistent emotional support, encouragement and affection. They celebrate each other’s successes, provide comfort during tough times and maintain a healthy level of intimacy and connection.
These qualities create a nurturing environment where both partners can thrive and grow together.
‘Create a living relationship’
Seth Eisenberg, the president and CEO of the Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills (PAIRS) Foundation, told Newsweek that while he agreed with many of the chatbot’s suggestions, he also offered critical nuance.
He said that while mutual respect, communication and trust are essential, he would also emphasize the importance of self-worth in a healthy relationship.
“A strong, lasting relationship starts with a deep sense of self-worth,” he said. “Without it, you may seek validation or completeness from your partner in ways that can lead to dependency or control.”
He added that emotional safety and vulnerability, along with flexibility and the will to evolve, are other overlooked yet vital aspects of a lasting relationship.
“True love is not about keeping the relationship the same—it’s about embracing change and evolving together,” he said. “This requires curiosity, openness, and a willingness to let go of old patterns that no longer serve the relationship.”
Eisenberg said that while AI-generated advice can provide a “clear, logical” framework for guidance, it has its limitations—namely, an understanding of humans’ emotional depth and complexity.
“Human relationships are messy,” he said. “Relationships are built in the gray areas, the moments where logic alone won’t resolve tension or rebuild intimacy.”
Ultimately, Eisenberg concluded that there is no such thing as a “perfect” relationship.
“Perfection implies a static state—something finished,” he said. “Relationships are dynamic and ever-changing. Instead of perfection, I look for authenticity.”
“The goal is not to have a ‘perfect’ relationship but to create a living relationship—one that is real, responsive, and capable of growing through life’s inevitable changes,” he said.
While ChatGPT might offer a solid starting point, real-life experience and human understanding seem to be what make relationships truly flourish and evolve.