According to Sternberg’s triangular theory of love, there are eight types of love possible, depending on the combinations of the three elements: Intimacy, Passion, and Commitment. Reflect on your life as a child, an adolescent, and an adult. Have you experienced all eight types of love in your life? Describe these relationships. Do you consider all of them “love,” in other words, do you or did you say about that person, “I love them”?
Nonlove (all three missing)
Liking (intimacy)
Infatuated love (passion)
Empty love (commitment)
Romantic love (intimacy and passion)
Companionate love (intimacy and commitment)
