Love sense the revolutionary new science of romantic relationships
"Love Sense: The Revolutionary New Science of Romantic Relationships" is a book written by Dr. Sue Johnson, a clinical psychologist and developer of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The book was published in 2013 and has since become a bestseller.
In "Love Sense," Dr. Johnson presents a new understanding of romantic relationships, based on the latest research in neuroscience, psychology, and attachment theory. She argues that traditional approaches to relationships, such as the "happily ever after" myth, are often based on outdated and unrealistic expectations.
According to Dr. Johnson, romantic love is not just a feeling, but a complex emotional and psychological process that involves the brain's reward system, attachment needs, and emotional regulation. She proposes that relationships are not just about finding the "right" partner, but about developing a secure and loving bond with that person.
The book is organized around three main themes:
- The Science of Love: Dr. Johnson explains the latest research on the biology and psychology of romantic love, including the role of oxytocin, dopamine, and vasopressin in attachment and bonding.
- The Myth of the Perfect Partner: Dr. Johnson challenges the idea that there is a single "perfect" partner out there, and instead argues that relationships are about developing a secure and loving bond with the person you are with.
- The Power of Emotional Connection: Dr. Johnson emphasizes the importance of emotional connection and intimacy in relationships, and provides practical strategies for building and maintaining a strong emotional bond with your partner.
Some of the key concepts and ideas presented in the book include:
- The importance of attachment needs in relationships
- The role of emotional regulation in relationships
- The concept of "love maps" and how they can help couples build a deeper emotional connection
- The importance of "hold me tight" behaviors, such as physical touch and affection, in building intimacy and attachment
- The concept of "acceptance" and how it can help couples overcome conflicts and build a stronger bond
Overall, "Love Sense" is a comprehensive and accessible guide to understanding romantic relationships, and provides practical strategies for building and maintaining a strong and loving bond with your partner.