The word “love” conjures up a feeling of giddy, euphoric excitement. It seems like a powerful force that has dictated centuries of philosophy, poetry and literature. But love is not just a fairy tale; it’s actually a science, with real-world effects on both the body and the mind. And understanding the biology behind those feelings helps therapists treat people who are suffering from heartache or who are trying to rekindle their relationships.
The science of love encompasses a broad range of disciplines, including psychology, neuroscience, anthropology and biology. It’s an emotional experience that can occur between family members, friends and romantic partners. It can also affect groups or communities of people who have formed close attachments to one another, such as coworkers or members of a sports team. In a more spiritual sense, it can also be an expression of devotion to God.
While scientists do not fully agree on the definition of love, they do agree that it is a complex emotion that is different from other emotions in that it is both an emotional and cognitive experience. Some psychologists categorize love as a primary emotion, while others argue that it is more of a secondary emotion derived from a mixture of other emotions.
Some of the major emotions that comprise love are intimacy, passion and commitment. Intimacy involves feelings of attachment and bonding, while passion is driven by both limerance (sexual attraction) and pheromones (hormones that influence our mood). Commitment is the decision to remain with someone, both in the short and long term.
Scientists have discovered that the physical sensations triggered by love cause changes in the brain, specifically the areas that regulate our emotions and motivation. The hormones oxytocin and phenethylamine, which are released during love, influence the levels of dopamine in your brain, which causes you to feel excited and euphoric when thinking about the person who is the object of your affections. Even just seeing the person’s photo can trigger this reaction.
The emotional support and security provided by healthy, loving relationships also helps with a person’s overall well-being. Studies have found that when loved ones are nearby, people tend to sleep better and have more energy. Love can also have a positive effect on a person’s immune system by helping them to overcome stress and fear.
Some of the strongest forms of love are demonstrated by those who commit to people who may be difficult to love, such as a parent or friend who remains committed to a person in a destructive behavior pattern. This type of love is often characterized by the depth of the price that was paid to show this love and by the fact that it is not involuntary but the result of choice. The ultimate example of this kind of love is the divine love that was expressed when Jesus died on the cross for sinful enemies who could never deserve His sacrifice. It is this kind of unconditional love that is the most beautiful thing in all the world.
