How do certain chemicals interact in the human brain to create feelings of love and attachment?
The brain's ability to form social bonds is driven by complex interactions between multiple neurotransmitters, hormones, and neural circuits. Some of the key players include:

- Oxytocin - a hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that acts on the pituitary gland to promote uterine contractions during childbirth and breastfeeding, as well as trust and bonding between people. It has also been shown to play an important role in establishing mother-infant attachments and promoting sexual behavior.
- Serotonin - another monoamine neurotransmitter found within several regions of the brain involved in mood regulation and pleasure response. High levels of serotonin are associated with feelings of contentment and well-being.
- Endorphins - natural painkillers produced in the body which act upon opioid receptors located throughout the brain, including those implicated in social interaction. The release of endorphins may contribute to euphoric states induced by romantic or physical attraction.