When asked what a relationship is for, most people respond that it's for companionship, sharing tasks, and sexual intimacy. While those things are true, romantic love serves a greater purpose. Romantic love has a very significant meaning and function. Specifically, it helps partners regulate difficult emotions and serve as a buffer from the stresses and strains of life. Getting that functionality right is key to relationship satisfaction! Relationship and couple counselor Terri DiMatteo, LPC of Open Door Therapy breaks it down.