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Is it love or limerence…and can it be both?
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The “honeymoon phase,” “love at first sight,” an “instant connection…” These are all terms we’ve heard used to describe the type of love everyone hopes for—but these whirlwind romances can be more overwhelming and confusing than we’d expect. These early stages of infatuation are known as limerence, which almost everyone experiences at some point in their lives. If you think you might be in limerence (and are looking for the tools to navigate it), you’ve come to the right place. We’ll explain the 4 stages of limerence, how you might feel in each one, and how to move on to a better relationship with your romantic partners and yourself!
Things You Should Know
- The four stages of limerence are attraction, obsession, elation and frustration, and resolution.
- These four limerence stages help us understand the experience of intense romantic obsession and infatuation.
- Limerence and love are not the same. Love requires acknowledgement of flaws, but limerent people idealize their partners and don’t see the whole person.
Steps
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Tips
- Limerence is not currently considered to be a mental disorder, although it has been compared to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and substance use disorder (SUD). If you think your limerence is severely impacting your mental health, reach out to a qualified counselor or psychologist. [9] X Research sourceThanks
- Limerence can be a normal experience, so don’t beat yourself up about it! Just be realistic about your emotions and use the tools and strategies mentioned in this article to move forward.Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://marriagehelper.com/three-stages-madly-love-limerence-dr-joe-show-podcast/
- ↑ https://marriagehelper.com/three-stages-madly-love-limerence-dr-joe-show-podcast/
- ↑ https://marriagehelper.com/three-stages-madly-love-limerence-dr-joe-show-podcast/
- ↑ https://www.attachmentproject.com/love/limerence/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/limerence
- ↑ https://www.attachmentproject.com/love/limerence/
- ↑ https://www.attachmentproject.com/love/limerence/
- ↑ https://www.beselffull.com/blog/is-it-limerance-or-love-why-anxious-attachers-are-prone-to-fantasy-and-how-they-can-welcome-long-lasting-love
- ↑ https://www.attachmentproject.com/love/limerence/
About This Article
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