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The definition of love

The definition of love
by Sherry Jackson

Love can be a very subjective and confusing subject for a lot of people. Two different people will give two different meanings to love. Love can be seen as respect or trust or a combination of both. It can make people happy and it can make people suffer. Many people would agree that love causes a range of emotions.

Before we go on to examine why it is important to experience love from others, it is important to realise that all of us have different perceptions of love as mentioned above.

In the early 1950's, a psychologist of the time emerged. His name was Harry Harlow. This medical professional of the mind conducted many studies relating to the cause and effect of relationships and isolation in the lives of many people. He hoped to conclude that each of us had a need for basic companionship and certain "caring" relationships in the life. In his findings, he did conclude that some type of love is essential in order for a person to have a solid, stable life.

Moreover, Maslow suggested a hierarchy of needs for humans and love is very close to the top after food, water and shelter. This backs up the theory suggested by Harry Harlow.

Maslow argued that all humans need social interaction. Once all the basic needs of life have been met, people look to form alliances in the form of family, friends and intimate relationships.

Being loved and loving someone is very special for most people. The feeling of acceptance and belonging is much appreciated by people and creates a positive mindset. On the other hand, people who do not form loving bonds struggle with negative energy and attitudes.

Those that do not love, feel that they are not loved, and lack a sense of "belonging" to the people in their lives can experience any of the following symptoms and/or emotions:

1. Many may feel extremely lonely. This may just affect one area of life, or several areas. It is possible to feel loved at home, and not feel this emotion among others.

3. A feeling of anxiety in social context when around people.

3. As a result of collective symptoms, depression may be the ultimate problem.

4. In severe cases, many individuals who fail to feel as if they are loved may experience suicidal thoughts, or may actually attempt this act. Unfortunately, many have actually succeeded.

As you can see, feeling loved, and actually loving someone else in return is a very important element when it comes to feeling good about who we are and the lives that we lead. What is love? Love is when you can feel good without harming another or yourself. It is about a two way street that involves trust and respect. It is about identifying the best in others, as well as ourselves.

I am not a love expert but I run the website love calculator for fun comparisons of names and their matches. It is not just another love calculator.

Posted in Family on Sunday 29th of June 2008 07:45:34 PM