Is Love at First Sight Real?

It’s Saturday night, and the bar is packed. A beautiful brunette is sitting at the bar, sipping a vodka soda and chatting with a friend. Then, out of the corner of her eye, she catches the glimpse of a man. Their eyes lock and they lived happily ever after. But is it really that easy?

Don’t get too sloppy on that first date — researchers who study human attraction say people form opinions quickly when it comes to romance.

In fact, some researchers think it takes just three minutes to decide whether someone’s a potential mate (and that’s before the drinks come out). And findings of friends who click immediately might also apply to romantic partnerships.

In one study on friendships, people who enjoyed the first few minutes together were likely to develop a close relationship after nine weeks.

But instant attraction isn’t just in our heads: There may be a biological basis to love at first sight. Studies have found animals are more likely to mate with partners they’re genetically compatible with. It’s unclear whether this research applies to humans, but some scientists think we might be pre-programmed to spot “the one.”

The romantic attraction could serve an evolutionary function — we seek out specific people that will be suitable mates and give everyone else the boot. But meeting that special someone’s gaze and falling in love may be a bit more complicated.

Insta love? — The Answer/Debate

Although some people believe in love at first sight, not everyone falls head over heels right away. Perhaps surprisingly, women aren’t always the romantics in this love equation: One study found men experience love, at first sight, more often than women.

Researchers think that’s because men respond to physical cues more readily than women, and women tend to develop trust more gradually than men. And people might be more inclined to believe in love at first sight when they’re younger.

People over 50 are 6% less likely than people under 50 to think people can fall in love immediately (possibly because they’ve had more romantic relationships with different partners).

But it’s unclear how often love at first sight turns into a successful partnership. One survey in Israel found only about 10% of people say their long-term relationships began that way. While people can be instantly attracted to each other, some scientists say being in love means really getting to know someone over time.

So, don’t throw in the towel if that first date didn’t go so hot. Psychologists believe more interactions with someone can make them look more attractive and intelligent. (Wanna’ hang out tomorrow, and the next day, and the next…?) It may be worth giving love at second or third sight a chance, too.

Sometimes one look is all it takes to fall in love. But some experts think real affection develops gradually over time.

Source: greatist.com

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