In this article, we will Describe the Theories of Love and Friendship that help understand what close relationships are.
Theories of Love and Friendship that help understand what close relationships are.
Several theories of love and friendship help us understand the nature of close relationships. Here are descriptions of three theories that help us understand close relationships, including love and friendship:
1. Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love:
Robert Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love proposes that love consists of three components: intimacy, passion, and commitment.
- Intimacy refers to feelings of emotional closeness, trust, and connection between individuals.
- Passion involves the intense emotional and physical attraction, desire, and romance experienced in a relationship.
- Commitment refers to the decision and dedication to maintain the relationship over time.
These three components can combine in different ways to form various types of love, including romantic love (intimacy and passion), companionate love (intimacy and commitment), and consummate love (all three components present). According to Sternberg, the balance and interaction of these components determine the nature and quality of the love experienced in a relationship.
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2. Lee’s Theory of Love:
John Lee proposed six primary styles or types of love in his theory: eros, ludus, storge, pragma, mania, and agape.
- Eros represents passionate and romantic love driven by physical attraction and desire.
- Ludus refers to a playful and flirtatious love, often characterized by casual relationships and a focus on enjoyment rather than deep emotional connection.
- Storge represents a love based on friendship and companionship, developing gradually over time.
- Pragma refers to a pragmatic and practical love, driven by compatibility and shared goals.
- Mania is a turbulent and intense love, characterized by emotional highs and lows, possessiveness, and jealousy.
- Agape represents selfless and unconditional love, focused on giving and sacrificing for the well-being of the other person.
According to Lee, individuals may have different love styles, and compatibility between styles can influence the success and satisfaction of a relationship.
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3. Oswald’s Theory of Friendship:
Michael Oswald’s Theory of Friendship focuses on the nature and qualities of friendship. According to Oswald, there are three main dimensions of friendship:
- Affective Dimension: This refers to the emotional connection and closeness between friends. It includes feelings of trust, empathy, and mutual support.
- Shared Activity Dimension: This dimension involves engaging in shared activities, interests, and experiences, which contribute to the development of common bonds and a sense of camaraderie.
- Sociability Dimension: This dimension pertains to the social aspects of friendship, such as spending time together, enjoying each other’s company, and having fun.
Oswald’s theory highlights the multifaceted nature of friendship and the importance of emotional connection, shared activities, and social interaction in nurturing and maintaining close friendships.
These theories provide valuable insights into the dynamics and qualities of close relationships, including love and friendship. They help us understand the different components and styles of love, as well as the factors that contribute to the formation, maintenance, and satisfaction of close relationships.
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