Caution: It's Not Love – What You Need to Know About Limerence

Scientists have found that about half of all people experience limerence—a state of intense infatuation that can last for years. The term was coined in the 1970s by Dorothy Tennov. Limerence is characterized by extreme attraction, obsessive thoughts, and a manic desire for reciprocation, which disrupts daily life. Those with an anxious attachment style are at higher risk. Recommended treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy and cutting off contact with the trigger.

Scientists have found that about half of all people experience limerence—a state of intense infatuation that can last for years. The term was coined in the 1970s by researcher Dorothy Tennov. Limerence is characterized by extreme attraction, obsessive thoughts about the object of affection, and a manic desire for reciprocation. The person idealizes their partner, attributing imagined virtues to them. This state disrupts daily life, interfering with work and sleep. The main driver is uncertainty and the lack of a clear response from the object. Those with an anxious attachment style and a fear of being abandoned are at higher risk. Overcoming this obsession is difficult; cognitive-behavioral therapy and complete cessation of contact with the trigger are recommended. The article references The New York Times.