Article

Crushes

Introduction

A "crush" is an intense, often short-lived feeling of romantic or sexual attraction toward someone. Crushes are a common experience across all ages and cultures, often characterized by heightened emotions, idealization, and a sense of longing. They can occur in various contexts, such as friendships, professional relationships, or even with strangers or celebrities.

Psychological and Emotional Aspects

Crushes are driven by a combination of psychological and emotional factors:

Infatuation: Crushes often involve idealizing the person of interest, focusing on their positive traits while overlooking flaws.
Hormonal Influence: Hormones like dopamine and oxytocin play a significant role in the euphoric feelings associated with crushes.
Projection: People may project their desires or fantasies onto the object of their crush, imagining qualities or scenarios that may not align with reality.
Uncertainty and Anticipation: The ambiguity of whether feelings are reciprocated can heighten the emotional intensity of a crush.

Types of Crushes

Romantic Crush: A desire for a romantic relationship with the person.
Platonic Crush: Also known as a "friend crush," this involves admiration and a strong desire for friendship.
Celebrity Crush: Attraction toward a public figure, often idealized due to their curated public image.

Writing Tips

When portraying crushes in narratives:

Show Internal Conflict: Highlight the character's inner turmoil, such as nervousness, overthinking, or daydreaming.
Use Sensory Details: Describe how the character perceives the object of their crush, focusing on specific traits like their voice, scent, or mannerisms.
Depict Subtle Interactions: Small gestures, fleeting glances, or accidental touches can convey the intensity of a crush.
Contrast Fantasy and Reality: Show how the character's idealized view of their crush differs from reality.

Example

"Her heart raced every time he walked into the room. She found herself memorizing the way his laughter filled the air, the way his hands moved as he spoke. In her mind, he was perfect, untouchable—a dream she wasn't ready to wake up from."