The Science Behind Why We Fall in Love

Key Concepts

• The experience of falling in love can be intense, fast, and overwhelming, often compared to being hit by Cupid's arrow.
• Three chemicals are primarily responsible for the initial feelings of being in love:
  • Noradrenaline: Induces adrenaline production, causing a racing heart and sweaty palms.
  • Dopamine: The pleasure chemical that makes us feel good.
  • Phenylethylamine: Released when near a crush, giving the feeling of butterflies.

Biological Phases of Love

1. Lust:
   • Driven by testosterone and oestrogen.
   • Similar to other mammals.
2. Attraction:
   • Comparable to the rush experienced from drugs or alcohol.
   • Involves chemicals like dopamine (pleasure), adrenaline (fight or flight), and norepinephrine (alertness).
   • Physical signs include flushed cheeks, sweaty palms, and racing heart.
3. Attachment:
   • Involves the release of oxytocin, replacing dopamine and norepinephrine.
   • Leads to feelings of close bonding and plans for a long-term relationship.

Factors Affecting Attraction

1. Smell:
   • Pheromones play a role, found in sweat and bodily fluids.
   • Women prefer scents of men with complementary disease-resistance genes.
2. Similarity:
   • People tend to be attracted to like-minded individuals.
   • Studies show happy couples share similar personality traits and values.
3. Appearance:
   • Symmetrical faces are generally more attractive, indicating good genes and health.
   • Life experiences influence personal preferences in attraction.
   • Exposure to certain faces can increase their attractiveness.
4. Body Mass Index (BMI):
   • Traditional attractiveness linked to waist-hip ratios.
   • Healthier BMI considered more attractive, indicating good health and fertility.
   • Women look for men with about 12% body fat.

Scientific References

• Articles and studies on similarity, attraction, pheromones, and the chemistry of love.
• Importance of life experiences in determining attraction.

Additional Information

• The discussion includes how certain facial features can influence perceived attractiveness based on personal experiences and exposure.
• Attractiveness is not just based on physical appearance but also includes genetic compatibility and shared life views.