The awakening of romantic infatuation actually begins before puberty, around the age of 10. As androgens increase, girls and boys experience their first crushes. The primary and most well-known androgen is called testosterone.
Throughout puberty, estrogen and progesterone also have a particularly powerful influence over neurotransmitters. All these play important roles when falling in love — which is more emotion than rational thought.
Other key hormones active in teen brains are:
The “Energizer” Chemical
Falling in love elevates norepinephrine—commonly known as adrenaline—and accounts for racing hearts and sweaty palms.
The “Feel Good” Chemical
During the beginning of adolescence the awakening of sexual desire occurs as dopamine spikes. Falling in love elevates dopamine — which explains the euphoria.
The “Mood Stabilizer” Chemical
Decreasing levels of serotonin results in some of the sadness and obsessive behavior typical of falling in love. It also regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.
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The “Sexual Awakening” Chemicals
The awakening of romantic infatuation actually begins before puberty, around the age of 10. As androgens increase, girls and boys experience their first crushes. The primary and most well-known androgen is called testosterone.
Throughout puberty, estrogen and progesterone also have a particularly powerful influence over neurotransmitters. All these play important roles when falling in love — which is more emotion than rational thought.
Other key hormones active in teen brains are:
The “Energizer” Chemical
Falling in love elevates norepinephrine—commonly known as adrenaline—and accounts for racing hearts and sweaty palms.
The “Feel Good” Chemical
During the beginning of adolescence the awakening of sexual desire occurs as dopamine spikes. Falling in love elevates dopamine — which explains the euphoria.
The “Mood Stabilizer” Chemical
Decreasing levels of serotonin results in some of the sadness and obsessive behavior typical of falling in love. It also regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.