In an attempt to learn how the workings of the brain affect one’s love life, relationship blogger Scott Alden consulted Dr. Jason Shepherd, Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences at M.I.T. Here’s what he found out.

Let Nature Take Its Course

Though you might think you’re consciously selecting a mate, chances are good that your unconscious mind has a lot to do with it.

"So much of our 'chemistry' and attraction to others occurs without us really knowing,” says Dr. Shepherd. “We often can't tell why we are drawn to certain people and sometime that's just because our brain has worked out.”

In other words, there are times when you’ll just have to let nature take its course.

Looks Aren’t Everything

According to Dr. Shepherd, when it comes to finding a mate, “men are mostly visual, whereas women are ‘cerebral’ for a better way of putting it. They require more than just visual stimulation to be attracted to someone.”

So what does that meant? That men must offer something more than good looks – intelligence, kindness, and a sense of humor, perhaps – in order to win a woman’s heart. That isn’t to say that single men don’t care about these qualities, just that they play less of a role in partner selection, at least at first.

Be Respectful

Men and women must respect their partners if they wish to maintain a long-term relationship. This tip is hardly surprising, but one many singles seem to forget.

“If you don't respect your partner for their intellect, drive, etc. then it's not going to work,” Shepherd says.

Check out SunHerald.com for more dating tips from Dr. Jason Shepherd.

Photo: morgueFile.com

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Categories: Dating stories