AP Love

“I can’t really describe her.”-Manti Te’o

Do opposites attract?• Generally, no• The two exceptions:1. Extrovert-introvert2. Immune systems-The T-shirt tests (Thornhill)Women were asked to smell t-shirts previously worn by men, and state

which shirts they were most attracted to. The findings showed:A. Women most attracted to those shirts worn by men with slightly

different immune systems;B. Women most attracted to symmetrical men; andC. Supported the existence of pheromones (chemicals that indicate

sexual receptivity) in humans

Physical Attractiveness

• Numerous studies demonstrate that people are attracted to those who remind them of their opposite-sex parents

• In addition, a recent study (Perrett, University of St. Andrew’s) suggests that you are most attracted to people who look like ….

•You!

Falling in love

• When a person falls in love, the brain raises the production level of three neurotransmitters

1. dopamine: feeling of bliss2. Norepinephrine (aka adrenaline): racing heart &

excitement Together the first two produce:-elation - craving-intense energy - loss of appetite-sleeplessness - loss of focus

3. Oxytocin (aka the “cuddle chemical”): hormone found in mammals. Also acts as a neurotransmitter In the brain.

- Secreted during sexual activity and during the birth process.

- Associated with sexual arousal, bonding, maternal behavior, increased trust, decreased fear.

- MDMA (aka Ecstasy) appears to increase oxytocin levels in the individual.

Falling in love

• Falling in love also causes a drop in serotonin, and suppresses neural circuits responsible for assessing people critically

• Result: obsession

• The process of falling in love is known as passionate love( aka limerence ) (Hatfield, Rutgers University)

Can it last?

• Almost certainly not

• Studies indicate that the chemicals responsible for the feeling of passionate love can only last a maximum of 2-3 years.

• Problem: A large number of people marry during the passionate love period

• Then they realize that their partner has flaws

Then what?

• Whether your passionate love can transition into companionate love (aka true love) appears to depend on:

1. Idealization of partner. The ability to put a positive spin on your partner’s behavior (Berscheid, University of Minnesota)

2. Length of Courtship. The longer the courtship, the longer the relationship will last (Huston, University of Texas, Austin)

K-I-S-S-I-N-G

• Kissing as part of romance is believed to be older than recorded history. One theory states that kissing started as a way for mothers to pass on nourishment to their infant children.

• Women use kissing as a method to measure partner’s health (Hughes, Harrison, Gallup, 2007)

• Kissing also appears to activate neurons that promote empathy and reduce inhibitions (Ramachandran)