1. STERNBERG’S THEORY OF LOVE

3. LIKING  Liking: high intimacy, but no commitment or passion.  One enjoys another’s company, but there is no sexual attraction or attachment, and there is no long-term commitment to one another.  Ex: Friendship

4. COMPANIONATE LOVE  Characterized by intimacy and commitment, but no sexual passion.  Example: Family members

5. EMPTY LOVE  Characterized by commitment, but no intimacy or passion.  Individuals in this type of relationship operate as though they are in a business deal.  Ex: Couples that remain married for the sake of children.

6. FATUOUS LOVE  Characterized by commitment and passion, but not intimacy.  Commitment is made on the basis of passion—physical and sexual attraction—but there is not friendship to keep the couple connected on a personal level.

7. FATUOUS LOVE  Example: Couples that know each other for a couple of months and then marry. These types of relationships often end in separation or divorce.

8. INFATUATION  Characterized by passion, but no commitment or intimacy.  “Love at first sight”  Usually based off of physical appearances and traits.  Ex: Teenage crush

9. ROMANTIC LOVE  Characterized by passion and intimacy, but no commitment.  This kind of love seems perfect. But, a lack of commitment can cause the relationship to fall a part, and the passion and intimacy fade.

10. CONSUMMATE LOVE  Characterized by intimacy, passion, and commitment.  This type of love is built for life- partners, and represents the ideal relationship.  It’s the one we should strive for.