According to Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love, which of the following best describes the type of love typically found in a committed and romantic relationship?

• A. Infatuation
• B. Companionate love
• C. Empty love
• D. Consummate love

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love, which proposes that love can be understood through three components: intimacy, passion, and commitment.
2. Step 2: Define each component: intimacy refers to feelings of closeness and connectedness; passion involves physical attraction and romantic feelings; commitment is the decision to maintain the relationship over time.
3. Step 3: Identify the types of love based on combinations of these components: for example, infatuation is passion alone, companionate love is intimacy plus commitment, and empty love is commitment alone.
4. Step 4: Recognize that a committed and romantic relationship typically involves all three components—intimacy, passion, and commitment—simultaneously.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the type of love characterized by the presence of all three components is called consummate love, which best describes a committed and romantic relationship.