FEBRUARY 2023

DOCTOR IS IN
The Psychology of Love
The psychology of love
and relationships is
a complex and multidisciplinary
field of study
that encompasses various
aspects of human behavior,
emotions, and cognition.
Love and relationships are
influenced by a wide range
of factors, including biology,
genetics, social and cultural
norms, and individual experiences.
Some key concepts that
influence the psychology of love and
relationships include attachment
styles, the role of hormones and neurotransmitters,
the influence of childhood
experiences, and the impact of
communication and conflict resolution
on relationship satisfaction. We
must also factor in how technology
and social media are affecting the way
we form and maintain relationships.
The brain is responsible for regulating
a wide range of emotions and
behaviors including attraction, attachment,
and bonding. Research has
shown that certain areas of the brain
are activated when people experience
feelings of love and attachment towards
a romantic partner. For example,
the ventral tegmental area (VTA)
and the caudate nucleus are thought
to be involved in the experience of
romantic love, while the anterior cingulate
cortex and the ventral striatum
are thought to be involved in the experience
of attachment.
Love changes us
Love can have a positive effect on both
the brain and the body. Studies have
shown that people who are in happy,
healthy relationships have lower levels
of stress, lower blood pressure, a
lower risk of heart disease, stronger
immune systems, better cognitive
function, including improved memory
and problem-solving abilities, and
better mental health outcomes than
those who are single or in unhappy relationships.
On the other hand, love can also
have negative effects on the brain and
SHAHAD
JONNA, PA
SPECIAL TO
THE CHALDEAN
NEWS
the body. Being in a negative
or toxic relationship can
have a detrimental effect on
mental health, leading to depression,
anxiety, and other
mental health issues. Breakups,
for example, have been
shown to activate the same
areas of the brain as physical
pain, and can lead to feelings
of depression and anxiety.
Moreover, love can lead
to obsessive thoughts and
behaviors, causing jealousy,
mistrust, and feelings of insecurity,
which can be harmful to both the person
experiencing them and the relationship.
The brain’s reward system
is likewise activated when someone
is in a romantic relationship, which
can lead to feelings of euphoria and
addiction. This can make it difficult
for people to leave unhealthy relationships,
even when it would be in their
best interest to do so.
Falling in love feels good. Our mood
is boosted as the brain releases feelgood
neurotransmitters. One of the key
hormones that plays a role in the formation
and maintenance of romantic relationships
is oxytocin. This hormone,
also known as the “love hormone,” is
released in the brain when people engage
in physical touch, such as hugging
or kissing. Oxytocin has been found to
increase feelings of trust and bonding,
empathy, and social connection. Dopamine,
a neurotransmitter that is released
in the brain when people experience
pleasure, is also thought to play a
role in romantic attraction.
Attachment styles
Another important factor in the psychology
of love and relationships is
attachment styles. Attachment styles
refer to the way in which individuals
form and maintain emotional bonds
with others and are believed to be
formed in childhood. Research has
shown that there are three main attachment
styles: secure, anxious, and
avoidant. Individuals with a secure
attachment style tend to have positive
and healthy relationships, while individuals
with an anxious or avoidant
attachment style tend to have more
difficulties in their relationships.
The way in which individuals process
emotions plays an important
role. Research has shown that people
who are better able to regulate their
emotions tend to have more successful
relationships. This is because they
are better able to communicate their
needs and feelings to their partners,
and they are better able to handle conflicts
and resolve problems in a constructive
way.
An important element to consider
is the impact of early childhood experiences
on adult relationships. Research
has shown that individuals
who experienced traumatic or neglectful
childhoods tend to have more difficulties
in their adult relationships.
They may have difficulties with trust,
attachment, and emotional regulation,
which can lead to problems in
their relationships.
Technology
In recent years, the impact of technology
and social media on love and relationships
has become an increasingly
important area of study. Research has
shown that the use of social media can
both positively and negatively impact
romantic relationships. On one hand,
social media can provide a convenient
way for couples to stay connected and
communicate with each other, even
when they are not together. On the
other hand, social media can also lead
to feelings of jealousy and insecurity,
and it can make it harder for couples
to disconnect from their screens and
spend quality time together.
Love, at its core, is complicated
because human beings are complicated.
There is no one formula. Each
person has their own life experiences,
thoughts, and feelings that comprise
who they are and alter their compatibility
with others. Some loving relationships
will last for a summer
season, while others will last for a lifetime.
Every person who comes across
one’s path has a lesson to teach them;
the ability to be open-minded and receptive
to the lesson is important and
will contribute to personal growth,
awareness, and development.
When the intricacies and complexities
of love and relationships is too
much to bear alone, the best course of
action can be to sit down and have a
conversation with a licensed professional.
Despite the stigma associated
with seeking professional assistance,
the ability and decision to ask for guidance
when necessary is indicative of
strength and can have a monumental
impact in one’s life.
Contributing writer Shahad Jajo Jonna
works at Jajo Psychiatry (734-331-6037).
32 CHALDEAN NEWS FEBRUARY 2023