The question of whether love is a feeling or an attitude is a complex topic that has long been debated in psychology and philosophy. Both aspects play a role, and the nature of love can vary depending on your perspective. First, let’s take a closer look at the two points of view, and then look at some psychological insights.
Love as a feeling
Love is often perceived as a strong emotional feeling. People experience love through a variety of positive emotions such as joy, happiness, security, and excitement. These emotions can cause physical reactions such as heart palpitations, butterflies in the stomach, and an overall sense of well-being. Psychological studies have shown that especially at the beginning of a relationship, love is associated with the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play an important role in the development of positive emotions and the formation of bonds between people. Basically, however, this is the feeling of being in love.
Love as an attitude:
On the other hand, love can also be seen as a conscious attitude or decision. This approach emphasizes the conscious choice of opting for love and benevolence towards a person, regardless of transient emotions or states. This view is about actively working for the good of the other, acting with care and respect, and nurturing the relationship even when emotional ups and downs occur. This attitude can be based on principles such as empathy, responsibility, and commitment.
Psychological Studies:
Psychological research has shown that love encompasses both emotional and cognitive components. Studies on attachment theory have shown that loving bonds between people are based on intense emotional connections that develop over time through repeated experiences of care and closeness. At the same time, Robert Sternberg’s Triangular Love Theory emphasizes the three main components of love: passion, intimacy, and commitment. This theory emphasizes both emotional and cognitive aspects of love.
There is also research that suggests that a person’s behavior and attitude toward a relationship and partner can have a strong impact on how love is perceived. When someone chooses to act lovingly and caringly, it can help foster positive emotions and bonds, even as the initial strong feelings of infatuation subside.
In conclusion, love is both a feeling and an attitude. Emotional feelings are certainly an important part of love, but the conscious decision to act lovingly and work for the good of the other also plays a crucial role. The interaction between emotions, behavior, and attitude influences how love is experienced and expressed.
Love in research and science
Attachment Theory: John Bowlby’s attachment theory emphasizes the importance of emotional attachments in interpersonal relationships. Research in this field has shown that the quality of the bond a person had with their parents in their childhood has an impact on their ability to experience love and intimacy later in life. Secure attachment patterns in childhood are often associated with a positive attitude towards relationships, trust, and the ability to be close. Insecure attachment patterns, on the other hand, can lead to difficulties in forming and maintaining loving relationships.
Triangular Love Theory: Robert Sternberg’s Triangular Love Theory emphasizes the different components of love – intimacy, passion, and commitment. This theory postulates that different types of love are based on different combinations of these components. Research has shown that romantic love is often characterized by a combination of intimacy and passion, while long-lasting partnerships may depend more on commitment and intimacy.
Research institute: Neurobiological research has shown that love is associated with the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with reward and motivation, plays a role in the development of infatuation and passion. Oxytocin, also known as the “bonding hormone,” promotes closeness and bonding in relationships. Serotonin affects mood and may be related to the emotional aspects of love.
Long-term relationships: scientific studies on long-lasting relationships show that love requires a conscious choice over time. A 1978 study by Ellen Berscheid and Elaine Walster found that romantic love can decline over time, but long-lasting relationships often rely on a conscious choice to choose love and commitment, even as the intense emotions of infatuation subside.
In summary, research shows that love is a complex mix of emotional sensations, cognitive processes, behavior, and conscious choice. Emotions undoubtedly play an important role, but the way people feel and express their love is also influenced by their attachment history, beliefs, decision to love, and relationship experiences.
