A Psychologist’s (Brief) Guide to Infatuation
Few things in life are more exciting, energizing and passionate than the early stages of a new relationship. From first attraction to getting to know someone new things can seem to escalate quickly as we are caught up in the feeling of wanting someone and being wanted.
But for as great as it can feel, it is often the most volatile and precarious phase of a relationship.
What is “Infatuation”?
Infatuation is a state of heightened attraction and motivation associated with the earliest stages of a new relationship. While infatuation is often experienced as euphoric, it can also lead to feelings of frustration, distress and insecurity when our strong feelings are not reciprocated.
Infatuation is a visceral and primal set of emotions which can be difficult to manage, and often takes a fair amount of emotional maturity to navigate successfully. However, when individuals operate with transparency, consent and shared-values, the new relationship energy can be the catalyst for a sustainable and fulfilling relationship.
Okay, but what is Infatuation REALLY?
We can trace the experience of infatuation to key biological and neurological processes. If the “science” of New Relationship Energy (NRE) sounds boring to…
