The Science of Passion

What is passion?

We can have all kinds of passions in life - be it hobbies, sports, music, our work. Passion has been defined by researchers as having a strong inclination towards an activity one loves, finds important and invests time and energy in.

Passion is actually an entire area of research, and within this research there have been two types defined: harmonious and obsessive.

Harmonious passion is when someone enjoys a balanced approach to their hobby or passion (we like the sounds of this one) - it takes up important space in their life, but remains in harmony with other important aspects of their life.

Obsessive passion is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to engage with their passion. It may cause them to neglect other areas of their life.

Research has determined that people experience a lot of positive outcomes when engaged in a harmonious passion versus an obsession one. Some of these include high levels of concentration, flow state (focus), positive emotions and high quality relationships. Obsessive passions on the other hand are associated with negative emotion, cognition and behaviours both during and after the engagement of our passion. 

why do we end up with obsessive passions? 

Theories in psychology postulate that this may result from unsatisfied needs which in turn create a challenging relationship with the passion.

Self determination theory suggests that people need the following to thrive: feelings of autonomy (choice), competence and relatedness. It is well documented that unsatisfied needs have active negative repercussions for health and wellbeing which can extend to depression, burnout and negative emotions. Ensuring we offer these three things when we engage in within the passion hobbies to ourselves and others can help ensure we build a harmonious passion versus an obsessive one.

What about our needs outside of these passions? Can that drive how we engage with them in a balance or obsessive way?

There has been some research into that, and it does seem if we are missing one of the key parts of the self determination theory, it can lead to us trying to fulfill that need via the obsessive passion. An interesting point to reflect on if you find yourself consumed with something!

Finally, there have been a few correlational studies about mindfulness and passion. This research determined that a healthy relationship with your passion (harmonious) can lead to increased mindfulness in your life.

For more information or an interesting listen about some of this passion research check out the podcast by Fandom Science - Episode 22, the Psychology of Passion with one of the main researchers in this field, Dr. Robert Vallerand.