Chapter 3Love in Relationships

Descriptions of Love Love in Societal Context The Feminization of Love Theories on the Origin of Love How Love Develops in a New Relationship Love as a Context for Problems Jealousy in Relationships

Sternberg's Triangular View of Love

Love consists of: IntimacyPassionCommitment

Ancient Views of Love: Buddhism

Two types of love:

1. Unfortunate love is love of the self.

2. Love of detachment accepts people as they are without requiring them to be like you.

Ancient Views of Love: Greek

Phileo - Love of friends, family and lovers.

Agape - Spiritual love based on concern for the welfare of others.

Eros - Sexual love

Ancient Views of Love: Medieval Europe

In the 1100s, marriage was seen as political alliance between families.

After French Revolution, marriage became more of a mutual emotional union. 

Healthy Love Relationships

Associated with: High self-esteem - Feeling good about

self lets you believe others can love you.Self-disclosure - People who do not

disclose limit their investment in a relationship.

Cognitive Conditions for Love

Cognitive functioning is necessary for love.

Persons who have had front part of brain between the eyebrows removed (e.g., due to cancer) are not capable of love.

Problems in Love

Simultaneous Love - In love with more than one person at the same time.

Abusive Relationships - Some stay in these relationships because they are “in love.”

Risky Choices - Less likely to use condoms resulting in STDs and pregnancy.

Consequences of Jealousy

Positive Communicates that extra-partner romantic

involvements are unacceptable. Solidifies commitment.

Negative Depression Physical/emotional abuse