A long-term relationship with deep friendship and commitment but little sexual activity is best described as?

• A. Companionate Love
• B. Romantic Love
• C. Fatuous Love
• D. Empty Love

Answer: (A)

In Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love, different kinds of relationships arise from different combinations of three components: intimacy (deep closeness and friendship), passion (romantic/sexual energy), and commitment (the decision to stay together). The scenario described has strong intimacy and a solid commitment, but little passion. That blend—intimacy plus commitment with low sexual energy—maps to Companionate Love. It’s the kind of love that lasts through years of friendship, trust, and shared life, even if the initial excitement of romance and sexual desire has waned.

Romantic love would require both intimacy and high passion. Fatuous love combines commitment and passion without much intimacy. Empty love features commitment without intimacy or passion.