Neuroscientists have been studying the brain activity of people who are experiencing various stages of romantic relationship for many years now. They found that there is a distinct difference between how the brain reacts to new love and how it responds during mature long-term bonding. In this article, I will explore these differences in detail.
New love is characterized by intense emotional feelings, such as excitement, elation, and euphoria. This stage usually lasts around six months before it fades away into a more mature phase where couples start building a life together. During this time, the brain releases hormones like dopamine, norepinephrine, oxytocin, and serotonin which create feelings of euphoria, energy, desire, and calmness respectively. The release of these hormones makes individuals feel happy and excited about their partner and motivated to be around them.
Mature long-term bonding involves less intense emotions but deeper connections based on mutual trust, commitment, and intimacy. Studies suggest that this type of bonding results in lower levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin production, while oxytocin levels remain high throughout the relationship. This means that couples experience less fluctuations in their moods and feelings over time, making them more comfortable with each other.
Experts believe that both types of relationships involve similar neurochemical reactions that promote positive outcomes for the individuals involved.
When people are attracted to each other and form a romantic connection, they experience an increase in cortisol levels which can lead to increased alertness and focus.
The amygdala – responsible for processing emotion – becomes active during both stages of a relationship. These reactions prepare individuals to make decisions that will benefit them in the long run.
New love is characterized by more intense emotional experiences than mature long-term bonding.
Both stages have their own benefits and drawbacks. Understanding how our brains respond to different types of relationships helps us understand why some people may prefer one stage over another or why certain behaviors emerge at particular times in our lives.
How does the emotional intensity of new love differ neurochemically and experientially from mature long-term bonding?
The feeling of falling deeply in love can be described as an intense and intoxicating rush of emotions that can overwhelm one's senses. This heightened state is thought to result from a surge of chemicals such as dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, oxytocin, and vasopressin released by brain regions associated with reward and motivation.