Psychologists debunk love myths and advise healthy relationship practices

Psychologists note that common beliefs about love—such as intense jealousy, constant control, or early 'butterflies' after a few dates—often mislead people. American psychotherapist Andrea Mathews warns that controlling a partner stems from fear, not affection, saying, "Control requires the other person to always submit to my expectations. There is nothing unconditional about it." She adds that jealousy usually reflects insecurity rather than genuine care.

Relationship expert Jed Diamond outlines six everyday partner behaviours that signal a healthy, important bond: appreciating a partner’s strengths, actively listening and understanding, accepting vulnerability, respecting the person as they are without trying to change them, acting as an equal partner rather than a rescuer, and honouring the need for personal privacy. These actions, he argues, build trust, safety, and lasting connection beyond grand gestures.