I think we do attach to the love of our life when we are young...I remember the heartache, the physical missing of his presence...The loss of that at an early age really set me on a self-destructive path, marrying someone who was "safe" but whom I didn't love, staying for 20 years.
(This is stuff for a therapist, isn't it!)
At my age of 56, I doubt there is a man out there who could fill the void, or who would even want to be with me. I've realized though, in my marathon sleep sessions, that I miss rolling over and touching another human being.
I am going to check out your sources mentioned.
Thanks,
Patty