Love attraction is a strong emotional connection with someone, fostering a desire to spend quality time alone with them. This often includes a significant element of wanting their company and companionship. It's the feeling we typically associate with "love," but it's important to distinguish it from other types of attraction and love.
Differentiating Love Attraction from Other Forms of Attraction
Several sources define romantic attraction as a key component of what many consider "love." It's distinct from other types of attraction like:
- Sexual attraction: This involves physical desire and the wish for sexual intimacy. While it can coexist with love attraction, they are separate experiences. Romantic attraction can exist without sexual attraction, and vice versa.
- Platonic attraction: This is a strong bond of friendship and affection without romantic or sexual desire.
The key difference between love attraction and simple attraction lies in its depth and longevity. Attraction, particularly initial attraction, is often based on physical appearance or initial impression and can fade over time. Love attraction, however, develops over time and is characterized by deeper emotional connection and commitment.
Characteristics of Love Attraction
Love attraction involves:
- A strong desire for companionship: The core of love attraction is wanting to spend meaningful time with the person, both alone and within social settings.
- Emotional intimacy: This goes beyond superficial conversations; it's a deep connection where you feel understood and accepted.
- Potential for long-term commitment: Love attraction often lays the groundwork for deeper, lasting relationships.
Love Attraction vs. Love: A Clarification
While often used interchangeably, love and love attraction are not precisely the same. Love is a broader concept encompassing many things including love attraction, commitment, loyalty, and shared values. As one source puts it, love is "standing by your partner even when you don't feel the attraction."
Conclusion
Love attraction is a powerful force shaping human relationships, but it's essential to understand its nuances and distinguish it from other forms of attraction and the broader concept of love itself.