A Preliminary Study of the Emotion of Love between the SexesBell, Sanford
Science
A Preliminary Study of the Emotion of Love between the Sexes
Bell, Sanford
Child psychology; Love
Case 6. I know of two young people who have been lovers since
babyhood. As they grew up their love for each other assumed
different aspects. During the first seven years of their lives
their love was open and frank, showing no restriction of the
regard they felt. Caresses and embraces were indulged in as
freely and unrestrictedly as might have been between two little
girls. But when school life began and they became exposed to the
twits and teasings of their playmates there developed a shy
timidity and reserve when in the presence of others. Though they
have been separated for long periods at different times their
love has continued.
Case 7. Both about five years old when they first showed signs of
love that I observed. May have begun earlier. Lasted four years.
Broken up by girl's parents moving away. Love was mutual without
any signs of jealousy that I could see. Exchanged gifts, such as
candy, nuts, flowers, etc. Their actions at first very free
either when alone or in the presence of others. Later they became
somewhat shy in the presence of others, but free when alone. Upon
the girl's moving away the boy showed very deep feeling of
sorrow. Do not know about the girl.
Case 8. My little brother at the age of four was very much in
love with a little girl two years of age. He used to lead the
little girl around, caress her tenderly, and talk lovingly to
her. He always divided with her the playthings he most
appreciated. He often said he expected to marry her. While the
little girl did not object to his demonstrations, she seemed to
care more for a young man thirty-three years of age, and called
him her sweetheart. The little boy became jealous, and finally
gave her up. After they entered school together the little girl
became very fond of my brother, and always managed to sit or
stand next to him in the class if possible, but he had lost all
interest in her, and never cared for her again.
Case 9. B. 6, g. 5. They had been lovers for about two years.
They did not get to be together often since they lived in
different towns. Their families were relatives and exchanged
visits. Upon one occasion when of the age indicated above they
met at the home of Jeaness's grandfather. Edgar came late.
Jeaness was seated upon a hassock in the parlor where there were
several guests. Upon Edgar's entering the door, she saw him and,
as her little face beamed with evident delight, she arose and met
him in the middle of the room. They were immediately in each
others arms. Edgar's mother, seeing the vigor with which he was
hugging Jeaness, said to him with concern: “Why, Edgar, you will
hurt Jeaness.” Jeaness, who evidently was better able to judge,
archly turned her head and with a smile that meant much, said:
“No, he won't.”
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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