What is Robert Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love?

• A. A framework that emphasizes purely physical attraction.
• B. A theory that posits love consists of three components: passion, intimacy, and commitment.
• C. A model describing four stages of relationships.
• D. A theory focusing only on emotional bonding.

Answer: (B)

Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love says that love is built from three distinct components that can combine in different ways. These components are passion (physical attraction and sexual arousal), intimacy (closeness, trust, and sharing), and commitment (the decision to stay with the partner and work through challenges). When you look at how much of each is present, you can see why relationships feel different: high passion with low intimacy and commitment often feels exciting but unstable; high intimacy with low passion might feel warm and close but not thrilling; high commitment with low passion or intimacy can feel steady but distant. The strongest, most enduring form—often called consummate love—occurs when all three are present in substantial degrees.

This is why the best answer centers on the three components, rather than focusing solely on physical attraction, emotional bonding alone, or a model with four stages. The other descriptions miss one or more essential elements of what love, in this theory, actually comprises.