Whatexactly is this feeling of being in love? In scientific terms, itseems to be related to parts of the brain that "light up"when viewed with special equipment. Falling in love has a similareffect on the brain as using drugs such as cocaine. It gives similarfeelings of pleasure. So, being in love has a chemical effect on thebody.

Researchershave identified three stages of love. The first is physicalattraction, when you realize you like someone's appearance. Afterthat comes an emotional attraction. That's when you find out that youlike his or her personality, and you get along well. The third partis when you form an emotional connection with the person. This iscalled "attachment". It is what decides how long therelationship will last.

Nomatter how short it might be, an experience of love can quicklybecome the most important thing in a young person's life. Teenagersin love spend many hours talking on the phone or face to face. Thiscloseness teaches them a lot about themselves. It also involvessharing and trust, so it contributes to maturity. In short, fallingin love is part of growing up.