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Pair Bonding

Meaning

Pair bonding is a complex, species-specific social phenomenon defined as a long-term, selective, and robust affiliation formed between two adult individuals, typically characterized by mutual defense, cooperative resource sharing, and selective mating exclusivity. This deep, sustained attachment is driven by a distinct neurobiological and endocrine signature that promotes sustained attachment and cooperative behavior over time. In the human context, it is the foundational mechanism for long-term romantic relationships and the establishment of stable familial units. The underlying neurochemistry is an active and critical area of study in neuroendocrinology.