Love is one of the most important yet often the most complicated aspects of life. How do you discover what you truly want’ How do you choose a partner’ How do you keep a long-term relationship stable and healthy’ In her book, Pronk answers these and many other questions. "Science provides a solid foundation for this book, but my background as a relationship therapist and personal experiences have also shaped my perspective on love," says Pronk. "Liefde Verandert brings all these insights together."
Times, people, and relationships change
The book outlines the impact of modern developments, such as the increased interest in non-monogamous relationship styles and the rise of dating apps. Pronk states, "Swipe apps give us more freedom of choice, but they have made the search for a partner more complex. Our expectations have risen, and we have become entangled in a sea of options."Another finding is that the ’spark’ during a first meeting is not a prerequisite for a strong relationship. Pronk notes, "An immediate, intense attraction can, in some cases, actually be a bad omen. The most important thing when choosing a partner is to feel comfortable and relaxed with someone. From there, fireworks can still happen." The biggest misconception about love’ "That it’s a matter of luck or chance whether love comes your way. This truly underestimates your own role. You largely have control over living a loving life."
About Tila Pronk
Dr. Tila Pronk is a scientist at Tilburg University in the Department of Social Psychology. She has been researching love and relationships for twenty years and earned her PhD summa cum laude on this topic. She studies all phases of love, from (online) dating to maintaining and protecting long-term relationships. In 2021, she was named Teacher of the Year by Tilburg University. Tila is also trained as a relationship therapist. Her first popular science book on love, Passion (published by Bert BakkerPrometheus), was released in 2012. Tila is a sought-after guest for interviews and podcasts and frequently contributes to television programs. She has appeared as an expert on the NPO program Who Do You Think You Are’ and the RTL program Married at First Sight.
