Feb 22 • 21:45 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

Limerence: the feeling sometimes confused with passion, but which approaches obsession and can be dangerous

The article discusses limerence, an intense emotional state sometimes mistaken for passion, and explores its potential dangers through the insights of neuroscientist Tom Bellamy.

The article delves into the concept of limerence, a term originally coined in psychology in the 1970s, described by neuroscientist Tom Bellamy as an intense, exhausting, and often obsessive connection to another person. This feeling of limerence can arise even in individuals who are already in loving relationships, as illustrated by Bellamy's experience of developing feelings for a coworker while being married and loving his wife. He emphasizes that limerence is distinct from other forms of love and can be characterized as an altered state of mind that grips an individual passionately, yet can lead to complications if not managed healthily.

Bellamy elaborates on the euphoric onset of limerence, where the individual feels invigorated and optimistic to an extent similar to an obsession. The euphoric state can create a sense of addiction as thoughts begin to revolve around the object of limerence, resulting in increased energy levels and a heightened sense of positivity. However, this state can also turn perilous; the feelings might spiral into frustration and anxiety if not reciprocated or if the individual is unable to admit their feelings to themselves or the other person.

The article also touches on the rising global interest in limerence, as indicated by Google Trends, showcasing that more people are becoming aware of this complex emotional state. The discussion aims to clarify the nature of limerence and cautions those who experience it to recognize the emotional risks involved, ultimately suggesting that understanding this feeling is essential for mental and emotional well-being in relationship dynamics.

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