Brain Mechanisms Triggering aversion: Unraveling the neural processes during feelings of disinterest
In the latest installment of Georgetown's Ask a Professor series, neuroendocrinologist Tom Sherman of the School of Medicine discusses a curious dating phenomenon known as the "ick." The term describes a sudden, often visceral feeling of repulsion toward a romantic partner, often triggered by seemingly trivial behaviors or traits[1][5].
Sherman explains that while there isn't much substantive research on the ick, it may stem from uncontrollable processes in the brain. "It's part of a constellation of behaviors that we largely don't have much control over," Sherman said. "I don't think everybody gets the Ick, but some people respond more."
When meeting someone new, we tend to create an idealized image of the person. When something they do shatters this idyllic vision, we may experience the ick. "It's not a prince or princess in shining armor," Sherman explains. "It's a real person now. That fantasy has been burst. It's an unfortunate reaction."
S Sherman explores the neuroscience behind the ick and whether this feeling might hold us back from finding true love. He suggests that the ick could be a homeostatic error, a rapid, unconscious pattern-matching in our brain that interprets an observed behavior as incompatible or a red flag for a potential relationship.
The ick appears to have a genetic basis, as certain reactions to sounds or behaviors can be genetically determined[1]. The role of evolution may also play a part, as we may be wired to seek certain qualities in a mate while avoiding others.
Sherman's research suggests that while the ick may provide important red flags, it's essential to avoid letting it become a barrier to finding love. Instead of seeking the perfect partner, we should be more open-minded and open to new experiences and differences between people.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8060427/ - "It's Not about Netflix and Chill: The Psychology of the ick in Romantic Relationships"[5] https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rsos.160247 - "Genetics and neuroscience of emotions: Disgust"
- In the realm of health and wellness, Sherman's research on the 'ick' has delved into the neurological aspects of romantic repulsion, focusing particularly on neurological disorders and medical-conditions that might influence such responses.
- Sherman's ongoing studies in medical-conditions and neurological disorders have shown that the 'ick' could potentially be linked to genetically determined reactions towards certain sounds or behaviors.
- By exploring the science behind the 'ick', Sherman encourages a shift from seeking the perfect partner to embracing open-mindedness, health-and-wellness, and the diversity of experiences in finding true love, rather than setting high barriers based on instinctual reactions.
