The chemistry of interpersonal relationships

Abstract

The scientific studies aimed at identifying the molecular basis of brain processes are increasingly frequent. These studies provide a growing knowledge about the chemical compounds that act on our brain and are responsible for our feelings and emotions.
This paper presents a literature review about the chemistry of interpersonal relationships: which molecules are the “chemical actors” that play the key roles in the complex neurobiological processes ranging from romantic love and friendship, to social violence and xenophobia, and including trust and heroism.