Psychology In Seattle Podcast Limerence Deep Dive (Chapter 8 - Erotomania, Revenge P__n, Transference)
Dec 9, 2025
Dive into the complexities of limerence and erotomania, exploring their differences and how they manifest in behavior. Hear about real-life cases, such as Margaret Mary Ray's obsession with David Letterman, which highlights the tragic consequences of delusions. The discussion extends to John Hinckley’s erratic actions driven by erotomania, linking personal obsession with sociopolitical incidents. Kirk also tackles the challenges of treating these conditions, leaving listeners with a deeper understanding of obsessive love and its psychological underpinnings.
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Limerence As Addiction-Like Pattern
- Limerence is a long-term, self-sustaining pattern of distorted fantasy and addictive highs, not a short-lived crush.
- Kirk Honda frames limerence as akin to OCD or addiction because fantasies give euphoric highs followed by withdrawal and despair.
Reciprocity Fantasies Drive The Cycle
- Limerence involves fantasizing that the other person reciprocates despite lack of evidence and repeated misinterpretation of cues.
- This creates a cycle of euphoria and withdrawal that can last for years, distinguishing it from brief infatuations.
Erotomania Is A True Delusion
- Erotomania is a delusional disorder where someone is convinced another (often unattainable) person loves them, and it's DSM-recognized.
- It's impervious to counterevidence and often part of schizophrenia or delusional disorders rather than the distorted fantasies of limerence.