What kind of relationship are you in?

Robert Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love focuses on three core components of a relationship: intimacy, passion, and commitment.

• Intimacy refers to feelings of closeness, deep friendship, mutual support, and the ability to communicate vulnerabilities and find comfort in each other's arms.

• Passion is the physical attraction and the sexual communication and related dynamics in romantic relationships. This attraction arises from conversations, shared experiences, and/or a successful sexual connection.

• Commitment is a mutual agreement to face life’s challenges, crises, and surprises together. We are committed to staying together through good times and bad. It binds partners together.

Different combinations of these components create the following types of relationships:

❤ None Love – A relationship with none of the basic components.

❤ Romantic Love – A relationship with intimacy and passion but lacking commitment.

❤ Friendship– A relationship with intimacy only, without commitment or passion.

❤ Illusory Love – A relationship with passion and commitment but lacking intimacy.

❤ Obsession – A relationship that contains only the component of passion.

❤ Companionate Love – A relationship with intimacy and commitment but lacking passion.

❤ Shallow Love – A relationship based solely on commitment.

❤ Consummate Love – A relationship that includes all three components: intimacy, passion, and commitment. It is considered the ideal form of love, representing a complete and balanced relationship.

Every relationship is unique, and can evolve over time. The key is recognizing where you are and deciding where you want to go. Are you in the kind of relationship you desire? If not, what do you think is needed to bring more balance to your relationship?