Triangular theory of love (Sternberg)

Sternberg's model of love as a blend of three components — intimacy, passion and commitment — whose seven combinations range from liking and infatuation to complete, consummate love.

Sternberg's triangular theory of love (1986) is a validated model in which love is built from three components — intimacy, passion and commitment — whose combinations yield seven kinds of love. Consummate love blends all three, but Sternberg cautioned it is harder to keep than to reach. Pick the one closest to a love in your life. (Sternberg's triangular theory of love)

Groups

• Liking — Intimacy alone — warmth and closeness, as with a good friend.
• Infatuation — Passion alone — intense attraction at first sight.
• Empty love — Commitment alone — staying together without closeness or spark.
• Romantic love — Intimacy and passion, but not yet lasting commitment.
• Companionate love — Intimacy and commitment — deep, steady bonds and friendship.
• Fatuous love — Passion and commitment, with little deep intimacy yet.
• Consummate love — All three — intimacy, passion and commitment together.

References

• Sternberg, R. J. (1986). A triangular theory of love. Psychological Review
• Sternberg, R. J. (1997). Construct validation of a triangular love scale. European Journal of Social Psychology

Related topics

• The Five Love Languages
• Love style (Lee's colour wheel)
• Apology language
• How you fall in love
• What attracts you most
• Flirting style (Hall)

All topics on ArtaQuest