1. Love, Intimacy and Sexual Choices

2. Myth or Fact? Sexual desire is a sure sign of love? Feeling attracted to someone does not mean one is in love with that person. Adolescents often confuse feelings of love with lust or desire.

3. Whats LOVE? Is it intimacy? A feeling of warmth and connectedness that includes cooperation, communication, self- disclosure, caring and trust.

4. Is it Passion? A physical attraction and sexual interaction that is very strong.

5. Is it Commitment? A short term decision that love does exist followed by a long-term promise to remain in the relationship through the inevitable ups and downs.

6. What is Romantic Love? Is it true love? Romantic love, (Valentines Day Love) is only intimacy and passion, it does not involve commitment, but it could get you there!

7. What is true love? True Love is all three? According to Robert Sternberg, a respected psychologist.

8. As a Class, read the Article from Current Health, the Human Sexuality Supplement

9. There are three stages of Love Lets brain storm a bit and think about what stages people in love may go through.

10. The first stage is falling in love: this is filled with powerful emotions outside rational control! It can interfere with school, work, other relationships, sleep and even appetite.

11. The second stage is transitional love, transition or change occurs in every relationship over time. Passion and intimacy decline and couples begin to notice each others imperfections. Boredom and frustration win over fantasy ! This is a time for testing, will the relationship last or not.

12. The third stage is called Companionate Love. Mostly seen in adult long term relationships. It allows couples to love each other in a long- lasting committed way throughout their life time.

13. Love, Love, Love….A word so many times is overused and misunderstood. Find true love for yourself, but take your time!

14. Check for understanding Please write a couple paragraphs defining Love as we discussed in class. Make sure you include the components of love according to Robert Sternberg.