While we are still in the month love, science reveals how long love lasts….Every relationship is unique and love changes over time. Studies indicate that the intensity of love usually lasts around two years, influenced by hormones and neurotransmitters that trigger intense emotions during falling in love, says psychologist Elizabeth Cuevas Soria in an article published by Infobae.
Scientists identify four main phases of love, according to a study. The initial euphoria, which can last from 6 months to two years, is followed by the early attachment stage and a crisis between the ages of 5 and 7. These phases are euphoria, bonding, crisis, and finally deep attachment, according to an article in TecnoXplora.
Another recent study published in El Tiempo indicates love tends to wane after two years, suggesting that amorous fervour has a limited lifespan.
Love Stages
During the initial phase of falling in love, certain hormones are more predominant, while others provide long-term benefits.
At the early stage of ‘ l u s t ‘, love is characterized by an intense segxual(sex) drive and the active search for companionship. The focus is on physical attraction and arousal.
Emotions are the epicentre of the love experience during this phase. Intense physical attraction is experienced, accompanied by palpable euphoria and deep idealisation of the partner, fuelled by the release of hormones such as dopamine and oxytocin.
At this stage, a bond based on attachment and emotional stability is established. However, the first challenges also begin to emerge. It is a crucial period where the couple faces the reality of living together and must learn to deal with differences, the initial passion wanes and doubts about the relationship may arise. Couples face challenges and conflicts that test their bond, requiring efforts to maintain the connection and overcome differences.
In the coping phase, couples demonstrate their ability to solve problems and reconcile interests, thus strengthening their emotional connection. Mutual affection is prioritised over idealisations, and deeper and more meaningful communication is established.
In short, after experiencing the various phases of love, relationships tend to evolve towards a more solid and lasting stage. This evolution implies a deeper and more deeply rooted love, based on complicity and mutual commitment.
Despite the diminished initial feelings, it is entirely feasible to cultivate a lasting love. Open communication, mutual respect and keeping the spark alive are key to preserving and strengthening the relationship over time.
Research Notes
‘Love is a biological necessity that is as vital to a person’s wellbeing as fresh water, food, and exercise,’ says Stephanie Cacioppo, a neuroscientist at the University of Oregon and author of the book ‘Wired for Love: A Neuroscientist’s Journey Through Romance, Loss, and the Essence of Human Connection,’ according to an article published by National Geographic.
‘Because love is so important to our health, wellbeing, and reproduction, it could not be left to learning,’ says Sue Carter, director emeritus of the Kinsey Institute in Indiana (USA) and a renowned biologist specialising in social bonding, according to the same National Geographic article.
The mind and body use neurotransmitters and hormones to regulate functions and emotions. These substances influence the limbic system, where memories, smells, attraction and affection are processed. Oxytocin, for example, strengthens emotional connection in relationships, reduces fear of vulnerability and strengthens bonds over time, according to Cynthia Kubu, a neuropsychologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
When it comes to the emotions we associate with love, seven hormones play particularly important roles. Here are these chemicals and their effects…
Oxytocin, known as the ‘love hormone’, facilitates the formation of social connections, increases trust, and strengthens feelings of attraction.
Vasopressin, on the other hand, arouses emotions of excitement related to love for another person, promoting feelings of protection and attachment.
Dopamine, a reward hormone, is activated by pleasurable experiences such as food, exercise and love-making. On the other hand, testosterone and oestrogen, known as the more passionate hormones, play a crucial role in the desire to reproduce and our basic drive to have intercourse.
Noradrenaline triggers physiological responses to falling in love, such as a racing heart and increased energy. It is also linked to memory storage, which allows for vivid recall of the early days of a relationship.
On the other hand, serotonin decreases at certain stages of attraction.
‘Love is an exceedingly complex multi-sensorial phenomenon that involves all our senses and affects the brain in many profound and mysterious ways,’ says Jacquie Olds, associate professor of clinical psychiatry at Harvard Medical School (US), according to a National Geographic article.
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Morgan Mbila
