The Misattribution of Arousal Effect: Why Adrenaline Is Often Mistaken for Attraction

The Misattribution of Arousal Effect: Why Adrenaline Is Often Mistaken for Attraction

From Psychology of Romance Dr. Carlos and Retired FBI Profiler Andy Bringuel by Circle Of Insight Productions

May 3, 2026 · 6 min

About this episode

This episode explores how physiological arousal is often misinterpreted as romantic attraction, highlighting key psychological experiments and their implications for relationships.

Explore the misattribution of arousal effect, a foundational concept in social psychology demonstrating how physiological arousal from fear, stress, or excitement is frequently mislabeled as romantic or sexual attraction. This episode examines the landmark 1974 Dutton and Aron “shaky bridge” experiment, supporting research, underlying mechanisms involving adrenaline and the sympathetic nervous system, and real-world implications for relationships formed in high-stakes environments. Essential listening for psychologists, relationship counselors, students of social psychology, and anyone seeking to understand the subtle ways our bodies influence emotional judgments and interpersonal decisions.

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Carlos

Guest: Andy Bringuel

Topics covered

  • romantic attraction
  • misattribution of arousal
  • social psychology
  • physiological arousal
  • high-stakes environments
  • emotional judgments

Keywords

  • arousal effect
  • adrenaline
  • sympathetic nervous system
  • relationships
  • social psychology
  • emotional influence

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Circle Of Insight Productions

Books & works: Dutton and Aron “shaky bridge” experiment

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