The Science of Love
Published on Dec 15, 2015
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Psychologists have shown it takes between 90 seconds and 4 minutes to decide if you “like” someone
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Research has shown this has little to do with what is said, rather
55% is through body language
38% is the tone and speed of their voice
Only 7% is through what they say
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The Physiology of Love
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Evolved from two neural systems:
Sex drive - seeking unity
Attachment - seeking a specific partner
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The Three Stages of Love
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2. Attraction -
the “love-struck” phase -
adrenaline: heart-racing, sweating . .
dopamine: increased energy, less need for sleep and food, focused attention, experiencing delight
serotonin: constant thoughts – “temporary insanity”, increased happiness
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3. Attachment
oxytocin: the “cuddle” hormone, promotes bonding during intimacy
vasopressin: the “strong-bond” hormone, the Prairie Vole
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Chemistry of Love
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What are the physical reactions that can accompany ‘falling in love’?
‘high’ feeling – excitement, elation, giddiness
caused by increased activity of neurotransmitters in brain [norepinephrine, dopamine, phenylethylamine] -
plus, endorphins (morphine like substances) - calming chemicals
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Love ‘highs’ do not last – usually 6-18 months – possibly because body develops tolerance … romantic love is short lived
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Withdrawal – loss of mood lifting chemicals – similar effects to withdrawal and loss of ‘calming’ endorphins – dramatic breakups cause pain
The Limbic System -
emotional center of the brain, controls sex drive
basic emotions – love?
Romance = right hemisphere of brain
Attractiveness = left hemisphere of brain
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A bit more Psychology ...
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Robert Sternberg - triangle
Robert Zajonc - mere exposure
Love Equation - reciprocity
Opposites?
Photo by ]babi]
