In Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love, which type-of-love label corresponds to having intimacy, passion, and commitment in balance?

• A. Romantic love
• B. Companionate love
• C. Consummate love
• D. Fatuous love

Answer: (C)

Consummate love is the state where all three components—intimacy, passion, and commitment—are present and balanced. Intimacy covers closeness, warmth, and connectedness; passion includes desire and romantic or physical attraction; commitment involves the decision to maintain the relationship over time. When these three are strong and about equal, the relationship is described as consummate, representing a fully integrated and enduring form of love. Other labels capture combinations of two components: romantic love has intimacy and passion but lacks long-term commitment; companionate love has intimacy and commitment but lacks strong passion; fatuous love has passion and commitment but lacks intimacy; empty love involves commitment without intimacy or passion; infatuation centers on passion without closeness or a long-term commitment.