Mind & body, Research

Is it love? Scientists talk romance on Facebook Live

By Yasmin Anwar

Is it love or just infatuation?

In honor of Valentine’s Day, UC Berkeley psychologists and neuroscientists Robert Levenson, Emiliana Simon-Thomas and Arthur Aron talked about the differences between attraction, early-relationship passion and enduring love during a Facebook Live Q&A session hosted by University of California multimedia director Larissa Branin.

Topics include the addictive high of a new romantic relationship, the crushing low of heartbreak, the pros and cons of online dating, the importance of working through conflicts, the benefits of intimacy, gratitude, and sharing memories, as well as the need to move on from unhealthy relationships.

Here’s a sampling of stories about the panelists’ previous research:

Creating love in the lab: The 36 questions that spark intimacy

Forever Valentine: Study shows marriage gets better in old age

Scientists link DNA to marital satisfaction

Couples who say ‘we’ have a better shot at solving conflicts

SEE ALSO: This is your brain on love” on the UC website.