Episode Details
Back to Episodes
The Neuroscience of Unrequited Desire
Published 2 months, 1 week ago
Description
Explains why people are often attracted to those who do not return their feelings. It emphasizes the role of dopamine, the brain’s anticipation chemical, which drives the thrill of the chase but is separate from actually enjoying the person.
Key concepts include:
Novelty effect – new crushes feel exciting due to surges of dopamine.
Psychological scarcity – unavailable individuals seem more valuable, triggering fear of missing out.
Memory exaggeration – past mild interest is often remembered as intense desire.
Ultimately, the text highlights that genuine connection relies on oxytocin, trust, and safety, which usually feels subtler than the intense “dopamine fireworks” experienced during the initial chase.
You can listen and download our episodes for free on more than 10 different platforms:
https://linktr.ee/life_notes
Produced by:
https://www.podcaistudio.com/
Key concepts include:
Novelty effect – new crushes feel exciting due to surges of dopamine.
Psychological scarcity – unavailable individuals seem more valuable, triggering fear of missing out.
Memory exaggeration – past mild interest is often remembered as intense desire.
Ultimately, the text highlights that genuine connection relies on oxytocin, trust, and safety, which usually feels subtler than the intense “dopamine fireworks” experienced during the initial chase.
You can listen and download our episodes for free on more than 10 different platforms:
https://linktr.ee/life_notes
Produced by:
https://www.podcaistudio.com/