The chemical basis of love involves a complex interplay of hormones and neurotransmitters that influence attraction, bonding, and long-term attachment. Scientists generally break love into three overlapping stages: lust, attraction, and attachment, each driven by different chemicals in the brain and body.
1. Lust (Sexual Desire)
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Hormones Involved:
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Testosterone (in both men and women)
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Estrogen
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These hormones increase libido and the desire for sexual interaction.
2. Attraction (Romantic Love/Infatuation)
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Neurotransmitters Involved:
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Dopamine—associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation; gives the “high” feeling when you’re in love.
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Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline)—increases heart rate, focus, and excitement.
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Serotonin—often decreases during early romantic love, which may lead to obsessive thinking about a partner.
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Brain regions rich in dopamine become active during this stage, similar to those involved in addiction, which explains the intense, euphoric feelings of new love.
3. Attachment (Long-term Bonding)
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Neuropeptides Involved:
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Oxytocin—the “bonding hormone,” released during physical intimacy (e.g., hugging, kissing, sex, and childbirth)—enhances trust and bonding.
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Vasopressin plays a key role in long-term commitment and protective behaviours.
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These chemicals help partners feel secure, comforted, and emotionally connected over the long term.
Summary Chart:
| Stage | Chemicals Involved | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Lust | Testosterone, Estrogen | Sexual drive |
| Attraction | Dopamine, Norepinephrine, ↓Serotonin | Euphoria, energy, obsession |
| Attachment | Oxytocin, Vasopressin | Bonding, trust, long-term connection |
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