Triangular Theory of Love
The Triangular Theory of Love, developed by psychologist Robert Sternberg, posits that love consists of three key components: intimacy, passion, and commitment. Intimacy refers to the emotional closeness and connection between partners, while passion encompasses the physical attraction and romantic feelings. Commitment involves the decision to maintain the relationship over time.
These three elements can combine in various ways to form different types of love. For example, a relationship with high intimacy and commitment but low passion may be characterized as companionate love. In contrast, a relationship with high passion but low commitment may be seen as infatuation.