Question

Which of the following sets are the three components of love proposed by Sternberg? a. Passion, closeness, sexuality b. Attraction, desire, complementarity c. Passion, intimacy, decision/commitment d. Commitment, caring, sexuality

Short answer

The three components of love proposed by Sternberg are passion, intimacy, and commitment. Thus the correct option is c. Passion, intimacy, decision/commitment.

Step-by-step solution

Review Sternberg’s Theory of Love

Robert Sternberg, a psychology professor, came up with the Triangular Theory of Love which proposes that love is composed of three distinct but interrelated components: passion, intimacy, and commitment.

Match the Options with Sternberg’s Components of Love

Review the four provided options and compare each with the components from Sternberg’s theory: passion, intimacy, and commitment.

Choose the Correct Option

The option that matches Sternberg's three components of love (passion, intimacy, and commitment) is c. Passion, intimacy, decision/commitment.

Key concepts

Sternberg's Theory

Robert Sternberg developed the Triangular Theory of Love, widely recognized in psychology education. This model explains how love can be understood through three key components, which combine to form different types of love relationships. By doing this, Sternberg provides a structured approach to defining the complexities of love, connecting psychology concepts to real-life experiences. The theory is fundamental in understanding relationship dynamics in psychology contexts. It emphasizes that love isn't one-dimensional but multidimensional, inviting us to explore how passion, intimacy, and commitment interplay. Whether in education or daily life, his theory encourages us to explore the ways these elements influence our connections with others.

Components of Love

The components of love, according to Sternberg's Triangular Theory, include:

• Passion: This refers to the intense physical and emotional excitement we feel at the beginning of a relationship. It's the spark that fuels attraction and desire.
• Intimacy: This involves feelings of closeness, connectedness, and bondedness in loving relationships. It's about building a life of shared secrets, dreams, and vulnerabilities.
• Commitment: This aspect reflects the decision to maintain the love relationship over the long term. It's choosing a partner and sticking with them through thick and thin.

Each component can combine in different ways to create various types of love, such as romantic love (high passion and intimacy but low commitment) or companionate love (high intimacy and commitment but low passion). Understanding these components helps in recognizing the type of love one is experiencing or seeking.

Psychology Education

In psychology education, Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love offers a pivotal lesson in understanding human relationships. It bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications, allowing students to analyze how love functions in diverse settings. Educators use this theory to demonstrate difference in relationship contexts, from romantic associations to friendships. Learning about the components of love helps students interpret emotional experiences more accurately and develop a greater empathy for others. By integrating Sternberg's concepts into the curriculum, future psychologists are better equipped to help individuals navigate their emotional worlds, evaluate their own relationships, and understand the dynamics of love more profoundly.