There are generally considered to be eight types of love that can manifest in a relationship, varying based on the presence and intensity of specific components.
While the exact number and categorization can differ depending on the psychological model used, one commonly referenced theory identifies these eight distinct types:
-
Non-love: Absence of all three components (intimacy, passion, commitment).
-
Liking: Characterized by intimacy alone. Feelings of closeness, bondedness, and warmth.
-
Infatuation: Based on passion alone. Intense, immediate attraction and sexual desire.
-
Empty Love: Defined by commitment alone. Often found in long-term relationships where intimacy and passion have faded.
-
Romantic Love: A combination of intimacy and passion. Emotionally bonded and physically attracted.
-
Companionate Love: Combines intimacy and commitment. Affectionate, trusting, and long-lasting, common in long-term partnerships or close friendships.
-
Fatuous Love: Characterized by passion and commitment, but lacking intimacy. A whirlwind romance and marriage without deep understanding.
-
Consummate Love: The complete form of love, incorporating intimacy, passion, and commitment. Represents an ideal relationship.
These types of love are not necessarily static; a relationship can evolve and transition between them over time. It's also possible to maintain different relationships falling into various categories simultaneously.
