Triangular Theory of Love

A theory of love which deals both with the nature of love with loves in different kinds of relationships. It is suggested that there are 3 components: (a) intimacy encompassing the feelings of closeness, connectedness, and bondedness experienced in loving relationships; (b) passion encompassing the drives that lead to romance, physical attraction, and sexual consummation (see also lust); and (c) decision/commitment encompassing, in the short term, the decision that one loves another, and in the long term, the commitment to maintain that love. See also romantic love, and contrast with companionate and compassionate love.

Reference:

Sternberg, R. J. (1986). A triangular theory of love. Psychological Review, 93(2), 119-135. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0033-295X.93.2.119