What is limerence?

Limerence is best understood as an intense emotional state characterized by obsessive feelings of romantic love, infatuation, and longing for another person. It often involves a strong biochemical attraction, where neurochemicals like dopamine and oxytocin play significant roles in generating feelings of desire, pleasure, and emotional bonding. This biochemical aspect can create an overwhelming sense of euphoria when one thinks about, sees, or is with the object of their limerent feelings, distinguishing it from more casual forms of attraction or connection.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of limerence. For instance, a strong attraction based on physical location can occur without the deep emotional infatuation that defines limerence. Similarly, a deep connection based on shared interests suggests a more stable and reciprocal relationship rather than the one-sided fixation characteristic of limerence. An infatuation based on sensory experiences relates to momentary pleasures or temporary attraction rather than the obsessive and emotionally charged nature of limerence. Thus, the choice emphasizing biochemical attraction captures the essence of limerence most accurately.