Robert Sternberg · 1986

Triangular Theory
of Love

Explore how Passion, Intimacy, and Commitment combine to create eight distinct types of love.

INTIMACY PASSION COMMITMENT Non-Love Liking Infatuation Empty Love Romantic Love Companionate Love Fatuous Love Consummate Love

Choose an activity

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Activity 1
Love Mixer

Set Passion, Intimacy, and Commitment to High or Low — then mix them in the beaker to discover which of the eight types of love you've created.

Start Mixing →
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Activity 2
The Love Doctor

A couple has arrived at your office. Read their story, then diagnose their relationship on your clipboard. Earn $100 for every correct diagnosis!

Open the Clinic →
The Eight Types of Love

The presence or absence of each component — Passion, Intimacy, and Commitment — gives rise to eight distinct relationship experiences.

Non-Love
None
Liking
Intimacy only
Infatuation
Passion only
Empty Love
Commitment only
Romantic Love
Intimacy + Passion
Companionate Love
Intimacy + Commitment
Fatuous Love
Passion + Commitment
Consummate Love
All three