Unrequited love is a one-sided romantic feeling where one person has strong affection for another who does not reciprocate those feelings. This situation can lead to emotional pain and longing, as the person in love hopes for a relationship that may never happen. It often occurs in friendships, where one individual develops deeper feelings while the other sees them only as a friend. People experiencing unrequited love may struggle with feelings of sadness, frustration, or jealousy. They might idealize the object of their affection, often overlooking their flaws. This type of love can be challenging to navigate, as it may affect self-esteem and overall emotional well-being.