The Limerence Evaluation below is a diagnostic test and assessment designed to help individuals assess whether they are experiencing limerence—a state of intense, involuntary, and often obsessive infatuation with another person.
This evaluation consists of 25 important questions aimed at identifying common characteristics and behaviors associated with limerence. By answering these questions honestly, individuals can gain insights into the nature and intensity of their feelings towards someone they are romantically interested in.
What is Limerence?
Limerence is a psychological phenomenon first described by psychologist Dorothy Tennov in the 1970s. It involves an intense emotional state where an individual experiences obsessive thoughts and feelings towards a romantic interest. Unlike simple attraction or affection, limerence is characterized by a longing for reciprocation, heightened sensitivity to the person’s behavior, and an emotional dependence on their responses.
Limerence often manifests during the early stages of a romantic relationship, commonly known as the honeymoon phase. During this period, the individual experiences euphoria, increased energy, and an obsessive focus on the object of their affection. While limerence can be exhilarating, it can also be distressing, especially when the feelings are not reciprocated or when the relationship faces challenges.
Purpose of the Evaluation / Test
The primary purpose of the Limerence Evaluation is to help individuals recognize the presence and extent of limerence in their romantic feelings. By answering the questions, participants can identify specific behaviors and emotional responses that indicate limerence. The evaluation also aims to differentiate between healthy romantic interest and potentially problematic obsessive infatuation.
Structure of the Evaluation
The evaluation consists of 25 questions, each addressing a different aspect of limerence. These questions cover a range of topics, including:
Intensity of Feelings: Questions like “Do you feel that you have never felt such intense feelings for anyone else?” aim to gauge the depth of the emotional connection.
Anxiety and Fear of Loss: Questions such as “Is the thought of this person leaving you unbearable?” and “Do you feel anxiety about this person’s feelings toward you?” assess the level of emotional dependence and fear of rejection.
Obsessive Thinking: Questions like “Do you constantly think about this person, even when you try not to?” and “Do you replay interactions with this person in your mind, analyzing their words and actions?” focus on the frequency and intensity of thoughts about the person.
Physical Reactions: Questions such as “Do you feel a physical reaction (e.g., heart racing, butterflies in the stomach) when you see or think about this person?” explore the physiological effects of limerence.
Behavioral Changes: Questions like “Do you rearrange your schedule to increase the chances of encountering this person?” and “Do you feel an urgent need for this person’s attention and validation?” examine the extent to which limerence influences behavior.
Interpreting the Results
After completing the limerence test below, the individual’s responses are scored to determine the level of limerence. The results are categorized into three levels:
Intense Limerence (Score: 20-25): Individuals in this category are experiencing a high level of limerence. Their infatuation and obsession are significantly impacting their daily lives and emotional well-being. It is recommended that they seek professional help to manage these feelings and develop healthier emotional patterns.
Moderate Limerence (Score: 10-19): Individuals in this category have strong feelings of limerence but are managing to maintain some balance in their lives. It is important for them to stay mindful of their emotional health and strive for a healthy perspective on their relationship.
Low Limerence (Score: 0-9): Individuals in this category have manageable feelings of romantic interest. Their emotions are strong but do not significantly disrupt their daily lives. They should continue to cultivate a balanced and healthy approach to their romantic relationships.
Conclusion and Instructions
The Limerence Evaluation is a valuable tool for self-assessment, helping individuals understand the intensity and nature of their romantic feelings. By identifying signs of limerence, participants can take appropriate steps to manage their emotions and ensure that their romantic relationships are healthy and fulfilling. Answer the following questions based on a scale of 1 to 7 with 1 being very low and 7 being very high.
