Theory of love

Triangular theory of love

What is love? There are as many definitions as there are people. The triangular theory , developed by Robert Sternberg , tries to answer this question, key to understanding interpersonal relationships.

According to this theory, there are three elements in love: passion (physical attraction and frequent thoughts of the other person), intimacy (emotional closeness) and commitment (degree of connection and responsibility of the other person), whose combinations lead to 7 types of Love according to one element, two or all three. It is represented by a triangle whose vertices are one of the aforementioned elements:

From the combinations of the three elements result 7 ways to love, which can be stages in a relationship or can occur independently:

1. Carino : characterizes the relations of friendship, without physical passion or long-term commitment.
2. Infatuation : it is a passionate relationship, but lacking in commitment or intimacy.
3. Empty love : there is a compromise between the two people, but there is no passion or intimacy.
4. Romantic love : there is intimacy and passion, but there is no commitment.
5. Sociable love : there is intimacy and commitment, but not passion.
6. Fatuous love : there is passion and commitment, but not intimacy.
7. Completed love : brings together the three elements of intimacy, passion and commitment.