Current+Research

 To learn more about how the brain works when in love, researches are using tMRI scans. tMRIs are taken when the subject is 'normal', and then when he/she is looking at a photograph of who they love. Compared to the 'normal' scans, the 'in love' scans showed "increased blood   flow in areas of the brain with high concentrations of receptors for dopamine".   Prof. Arthur Aron* conducted some other research. He had strangers sit across from each other and share intimate details about their life for an hour and a half, then stare into each others eyes for four minutes in silence. The results were astounding- many felt deeply attracted to their partner and one 'couple' even got married later!

Aside from humans, only 3 percent of mammals form relationships like we do. The prarie vole is one. It stays with it’s partner for life, and both parents care for their young. This is because the prairie vole releases dopamine, oxytocin, and vasopressin just like we do! The other 97% of mammals do not produce oxytocin and vasopressin, and therefore do not stay with their mates for life (they do not form a good enough bond because of the absence of such chemicals.)  http://www.latimes.com/media/photo/2008-10/42917327.jpg


 * State University of New York at Stonybrook

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