Selected aspects of the neuropsychology of love
Journal Title: Acta Neuropsychologica - Year 2009, Vol 7, Issue 4
Abstract
This article, based on a review of the neuropsychological literature from the last decade, presents some of the neuropsychological issues related, directly or indirectly, to love, such as the impact of genetic similarity on interpersonal attraction and falling in love; the role of evolutionary strategies concerning mate selection and the choice of partner for a long-term relationship in order to transmit genes to the next generations; the specific role of the activity of neuronal structures, processes and concomitant functions, and also changes connected with the neurohormonal system as consequences for the individual of falling in love; the specific changes caused by the influence of these neuro-and hormonal processes and functions on such factors as cognitive information processing, social and interpersonal behavior, perception of familial, social events and other intra- and inter-individual changes in a person falling in love, as well as attachment; the role of the “mirror neuron systems” within processes and states, especially empathy, imitation, self regulation, reading the mind, etc., which are of vital importance non only for falling in love, but even more for the maintenance of love between partners in close interpersonal relationships, such as marriage, for life. In conclusion, I would like to stress the fundamental importance of social neuropsychology for a more adequate understanding not only of various aspects of love within the individual’s remembered behavior, but also for happiness and quality of life.
Authors and Affiliations
Jan Rostowski
Keywords
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