The Science of Love

Stress

Cuddling Is So Important, It May Be Worth Paying For

Pamela Regan Ph.D. on December 25, 2012

A café just opened in Japan where lonely, contact-starved customers can pay for a cuddle. Sounds crazy, right? Maybe not – the need for physical contact is fundamentally human.

A café just opened in Japan where lonely, contact-starved customers can pay for a cuddle. Sounds crazy, right? Maybe not – the need for physical contact is fundamentally human.

Many have searched for the elusive human pheromone. What scientific evidence is there that lust, passion, and other human sexual responses are influenced by pheromones?

The very first kiss is a memorable event that occurs only once in a person’s lifetime. How does it make us feel? Excited? Anxious? Happy? Disgusted? Here, I describe a study that explored people’s reactions to their very first kiss. What they said might surprise you.

We’ve all heard the old adage, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” And when it comes to the minor irritants of daily life, it’s probably sound advice. But is it good relationship advice? Not really. When it comes to our intimate relationships, there is some “small stuff” that we really shouldn’t ignore.

In a send-off to my wonderful research assistant, Carlos A., who's leaving the lab for graduate school, I discuss our recent study comparing Indian-American adults in arranged marriages vs. free-choice marriages.

During a recent class discussion, one of my students raised his hand and asked, "Is cheating natural?" A lively — and intense — discussion ensued, with some arguing yes and others just as vehemently claiming no. What does science say?

As a scientist, I’m excited to have the chance to discuss cutting-edge research about close relationships. My goal is simple – to give you the most up-to-date scientific information about love, sex, attraction, conflict, and the many other fascinating and frustrating issues we face in our ongoing romantic relationships.