In Sternberg's Triangular Theory, how does passion typically evolve?

• A. Passion remains high indefinitely.
• B. Passion tends to rise slowly over time.
• C. Passion tends to build up quickly, peak, and then gradually decline.
• D. Passion is the sole determinant of relationship success.

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how passion changes over time in Sternberg’s Triangular Theory. Passion represents the intense arousal and attraction you feel at the start, and it typically rises quickly, reaches a peak, and then gradually declines as the relationship matures.

This pattern fits the description that passion builds up fast, peaks, and then declines. Early on, novelty and hormonal surges drive strong attraction. As familiarity grows, the intensity settles, while other dimensions—intimacy (closeness and connectedness) and commitment (the decision to stay and invest in the relationship)—often become more prominent. So passion doesn’t stay high forever; it tends to ebb, though it can remain present at a lower, sustaining level alongside intimacy and commitment.

The other ideas misfit because passion usually isn’t indefinitely high, doesn’t typically rise slowly from the start, and isn’t the sole determinant of relationship success.