each is associated with different neurochemicals. Lust is associated primarily with the hormone testosterone in both men and women. Romantic love is linked with the natural stimulant dopamine and perhaps norepinephrine and serotonin. And feelings of male-female attachment are produced primarily by the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin. Moreover
Helen Fisher, in her book "Why We Love: The Nature and Chemistry of Romantic Love," explores the different neurochemicals that drive various aspects of love. Lust, characterized by a strong desire for sexual attraction, is primarily influenced by testosterone, which affects both men and women equally. This desire is fundamental to initiating romantic connections.
In contrast, romantic love is associated with a combination of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which create feelings of excitement and euphoria when one is in love. Lastly, the deep emotional bonds and attachments formed between partners stem from the actions of hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin, which solidify long-term relationships and foster connections beyond mere attraction.
