Which statement is NOT a core component of Sternberg's triangular theory of love?

Which statement is NOT a core component of Sternberg's triangular theory of love?

• A. Intimacy
• B. Romance
• C. Passion
• D. Commitment

Answer: (B)

Sternberg's theory explains love as built from three fundamental elements: intimacy, which covers closeness and sharing; passion, the drive and attraction; and commitment, the decision to stay and work things out. Romance isn’t one of these foundational elements. It’s a term people use to describe a certain feeling or style of closeness, often tied to intimacy and passion, but it isn’t an independent component the theory uses to categorize love. The different forms of love arise from how these three components combine—for example, intimacy plus passion is often labeled romantic love, while adding commitment can lead to consummate love. So the statement referring to romance isn’t a core component because the theory centers on intimacy, passion, and commitment as the building blocks.

Sternberg's theory explains love as built from three fundamental elements: intimacy, which covers closeness and sharing; passion, the drive and attraction; and commitment, the decision to stay and work things out. Romance isn’t one of these foundational elements. It’s a term people use to describe a certain feeling or style of closeness, often tied to intimacy and passion, but it isn’t an independent component the theory uses to categorize love. The different forms of love arise from how these three components combine—for example, intimacy plus passion is often labeled romantic love, while adding commitment can lead to consummate love. So the statement referring to romance isn’t a core component because the theory centers on intimacy, passion, and commitment as the building blocks.