Serotonin and dopamine driven people in relationship
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The interplay of serotonin and dopamine in relationships is complex and involves different aspects of emotional dynamics and compatibility.
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Emotional Development: Relationships often exhibit a balance between serotonin-driven states, characterized by calmness and satisfaction, and dopamine-driven states, marked by excitement and anticipation. This balance begins in early child-caregiver interactions and influences later emotional bonds, suggesting that healthy relationships involve a seesawing between these two neurotransmitter systems (1).
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Autonomic Tone and Compatibility: People often pair up based on similar autonomic nervous system tendencies. For example, those driven by dopamine, who seek novelty and excitement, tend to pair with similar individuals, reducing the need for constant adjustment in autonomic states. This results in relationships that are exciting but may lack stability. Conversely, relationships influenced heavily by serotonin may ensure stability but could risk becoming stagnant unless balanced with some dynamic tension or novelty (2).
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Balance of Time Together and Apart: Maintaining a balance of time spent together and apart can be beneficial in relationships. Time apart can allow dopamine levels to recalibrate, enhancing excitement and freshness when partners reunite. This cycle mimics cultures where time away from partners is customary, aiding long-term relational stability by managing dopamine and prolactin levels effectively (3).
These dynamics underline the importance of understanding personal and partner-driven neurotransmitter influences to foster healthier and more balanced relationships.
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