Especially within the throes of a new romance, experiencing “that loving feeling” is a common emotion. But does that mean you are in love? You find yourself distracted and smiling when you think about your new paramour, and are very much looking forward to the next date. But are you naming your children?

There are subtle but significant distinctions between the emotions that accompany romantic attraction. Research explains.

Minjung Kwon and Youngjee Han (2017) described the difference between lust and love in a study investigating the link between both concepts and self-control behavior.[i] They recognize that both emotions are often experienced together but are distinguishable through their respective relationship goals: Love seeks a long-term relationship of commitment and sharing life with a partner; lust involves pursuing temporary sexual desire without a long-term relational perspective.

Recognizing that lust and love activate........

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