What is the type characterized by passion, intimacy, and commitment all present?

What is the type characterized by passion, intimacy, and commitment all present?

• A. Consummate love
• B. Liking
• C. Empty love
• D. Nonlove

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of Sternberg's triangular theory of love, focusing on the configuration that includes all three components: passion, intimacy, and commitment. Passion is the attraction and arousal that draws people together, intimacy is the closeness, trust, and sharing of oneself, and commitment is the decision to maintain and invest in the relationship over time. When all three are present, the relationship is described as consummate love—the most complete form, representing a balance of desire, closeness, and long-term dedication. If only intimacy were present, you’d have a strong sense of closeness without the sexual arousal or long-term commitment. If only commitment were present, the relationship would be steady but lack warmth and spark. If there’s passion but no commitment or deep closeness, the relationship might feel exciting yet unstable. If none of these elements are present, you’d see nonlove.

This question tests understanding of Sternberg's triangular theory of love, focusing on the configuration that includes all three components: passion, intimacy, and commitment. Passion is the attraction and arousal that draws people together, intimacy is the closeness, trust, and sharing of oneself, and commitment is the decision to maintain and invest in the relationship over time. When all three are present, the relationship is described as consummate love—the most complete form, representing a balance of desire, closeness, and long-term dedication.

If only intimacy were present, you’d have a strong sense of closeness without the sexual arousal or long-term commitment. If only commitment were present, the relationship would be steady but lack warmth and spark. If there’s passion but no commitment or deep closeness, the relationship might feel exciting yet unstable. If none of these elements are present, you’d see nonlove.