A recent study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences sheds light on whether humans are biologically meant to be in a relationship or not. The study found that there is a significant genetic component to the degree of satisfaction people report having with their romantic partner. This suggests that, at least in part, our happiness in relationships is due to our genes and not just our environment or circumstances. What does this mean for singles? Are we doomed to loneliness or is there still hope for us? »
Love is one of the most intriguing and often confusing emotions we experience as human beings. On the one hand, it can lead us to find a soul mate and experience unparalleled happiness. On the other hand, it can also lead to heartache and disappointment. So what is love, really? And are we really made to live as a couple?
Scientists tell us…
Well, know that this is a topic that science has studied. And there is an answer: yes, we are made to live as a couple, because without a partner we would not have the level of well-being that we have when we are in a relationship. To understand why this is so, we need to know how the human brain works when we meet someone.
When you meet a new person, your brain gets to work determining whether that person is your friend or foe. This process happens quickly and unconsciously and involves different parts of the brain. First, the limbic system, which controls emotions, takes over. This area of the brain evaluates whether the person is likely to be emotionally threatening.
Then the amygdala, which is responsible for fear and anxiety, begins to assess the situation. If the amygdala senses a threat, it sends a signal to the rest of the brain, making you feel jumpy or jittery. Finally, the neocortex comes into play, responsible for high-level thinking. This area of the brain takes into account factors such as facial expressions and body language to determine if the person is trustworthy. All this information is processed in seconds and helps you decide how to deal with this new person. Whether you smile or offer a handshake, your brain has already made the decision for you.
Then comes the oxytocin…
From the first greeting, our brain releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. It plays an important role in bonding, social interaction, and sexual reproduction. It is released when a person hugs, touches or sits next to another person. Oxytocin levels also rise during sex, childbirth, and breastfeeding. This hormone has many different effects on the body.
For example, it can help increase trust and cooperation, reduce fear and anxiety, and promote feelings of happiness and well-being. Furthermore, oxytocin plays an essential role in reproduction. During childbirth, it helps stimulate contractions of the uterus. And while breastfeeding, it helps the mother get closer to her baby and produce milk. Next time you feel close to someone, be sure to thank your oxytocin levels for making it possible!
So, can humans live alone?
Science says we are not biologically meant to live alone. Studies have shown that social interaction is essential for brain development and humans who lack social contact are more likely to suffer from mental and physical health problems. Even pets need social interaction to stay healthy – see how excited puppies get when they meet other dogs or their owners!
So while we don’t always enjoy being around other people, it’s clear that we need them to lead happy, healthy lives. Another situation that these studies have confirmed is the confinement due to the spread of Covid-19 in 2019. Many people who live alone have experienced a feeling of anguish and anxiety during this long period. Which suggests we may not be able to change our biology, but we can change our circumstances. And here we are talking about singles! Despite the frustrating experiences that have pushed them to live alone. That doesn’t mean they are doomed to a life of solitude. But I’m in a rebirth phase to dive back into a new adventure full of love and dopamine.
