INTRODUCTION TO ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS

SET TheoryFilter theoryThe Matching HypothesisRelationsgip BreakdownSexual selectionself disclosurephysical attractivenessparasocial relationships
Written By Rebecca Sylvia
romantic relationships

TOPICS

HORMONES

Several hormones play crucial roles in romantic love and sexual behaviour:

  1. Oxytocin: Often called the "love hormone" or "cuddle hormone," oxytocin is associated with bonding, trust, and intimacy. It is released during physical affection, such as hugging, kissing, and sexual activity, promoting attachment between partners.

  2. Vasopressin: Similar to oxytocin, vasopressin is involved in pair bonding and attachment. It influences behaviours related to mate guarding, territoriality, and aggression, particularly in males.

  3. Testosterone: Testosterone is primarily known as the male sex hormone, but it also plays a role in female sexual desire and arousal. It influences libido, sexual motivation, and aggression in both sexes.

  4. Oestrogen: Oestrogen is the primary female sex hormone, but it is also present in males in smaller amounts. It contributes to regulating menstrual cycles, ovulation, and fertility in females. In males, estrogen helps maintain bone density and libido.

  5. Progesterone: Progesterone is mainly associated with the female reproductive system, particularly during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle. It influences mood, libido, and sexual receptivity.

  6. Dopamine: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. It is involved in the brain's reward system and plays a crucial role in the anticipation and experience of sexual pleasure.

  7. Serotonin: Serotonin is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep, but it also affects sexual desire and arousal. Imbalances in serotonin levels can lead to changes in libido and sexual function.

  8. Prolactin: Prolactin is primarily known for its role in lactation and milk production in females. However, it also influences sexual satisfaction and behavior by suppressing libido and inducing feelings of sexual satiety after orgasm.

Rebecca Sylvia

I am a Londoner with over 30 years of experience teaching psychology at A-Level, IB, and undergraduate levels. Throughout my career, I’ve taught in more than 40 establishments across the UK and internationally, including Spain, Lithuania, and Cyprus. My teaching has been consistently recognised for its high success rates, and I’ve also worked as a consultant in education, supporting institutions in delivering exceptional psychology programmes.

I’ve written various psychology materials and articles, focusing on making complex concepts accessible to students and educators. In addition to teaching, I’ve published peer-reviewed research in the field of eating disorders.

My career began after earning a degree in Psychology and a master’s in Cognitive Neuroscience. Over the years, I’ve combined my academic foundation with hands-on teaching and leadership roles, including serving as Head of Social Sciences.

Outside of my professional life, I have two children and enjoy a variety of interests, including skiing, hiking, playing backgammon, and podcasting. These pursuits keep me curious, active, and grounded—qualities I bring into my teaching and consultancy work. My personal and professional goals include inspiring curiosity about human behaviour, supporting educators, and helping students achieve their full potential.

https://psychstory.co.uk
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