Which element is not part of Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love?

• A. Passion
• B. Intimacy
• C. Commitment
• D. Friendship

Answer: (D)

The main concept here is the structure of Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love, which identifies three core components that combine to form different kinds of love: intimacy, passion, and commitment. Intimacy involves closeness and emotional sharing; passion covers physical attraction and sexual desire; commitment is the decision to maintain the relationship over time.

Friendship is not listed as one of these three components. While friendship can involve closeness and support—which align with intimacy—it isn’t treated as a separate dimension in this theory. The three distinct components are passion, intimacy, and commitment, and different combinations of them describe different forms of love. For example, all three together describe consummate love, while other combinations yield romantic, companionate, or empty love depending on which components are present.