Robert Sternberg’sRobert Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Triangular Theory of

LoveLove…featuring:

The Seven Types of Love

Three Elements of Interpersonal Three Elements of Interpersonal Love RelationshipsLove Relationships

•Intimacy•Passion

•Commitment

IntimacyIntimacy(not what you’re thinking)(not what you’re thinking)

• Shared closenessShared closeness• BondingBonding• Deep connections characterized by Deep connections characterized by

communication and trustcommunication and trust• ““Knowing” someone (and, as we know, Knowing” someone (and, as we know,

knowing someone is not fully possible… knowing someone is not fully possible… but you get the point)but you get the point)

PassionPassion((nownow it’s what you’re thinking) it’s what you’re thinking)

• Intense emotional desire; romance• Involves physical and sexual components• Involuntary and motivational• Dominates thoughts and behavior• Positive (as in ecstasy or joy)• Negative (as in despair)• Usually wanes with time

CommitmentCommitment

•Short-term–Decision to love someone or not

•Long-term–Decision to maintain relationship over time

Your Task

• Define the relationships in The Great Gatsby using Sternberg’s theory

• Defend your qualifications using textual support

• BLOG your responses