Most people think of romantic love as a combination of attraction and idealization that can lead to (or come from) a linked relationship, even if there isn't a single, definitive definition. For generations, romantic love has served as a source of inspiration for artists, appearing in many plays, songs, films, novels, and other creative works.
Love is tricky and may evoke a range of intense feelings, from happiness to sadness, as anybody who has experienced love knows. From that first, euphoric "honeymoon" period to disillusionment and, perhaps, acceptance and a desire for permanency, romantic partnerships experience ups and downs. A good, long-term partnership is the prize for overcoming these difficult stages.
Three Elements of Passionate Love
Intimacy, passion, and decision/commitment are the three elements of love, according to Sternberg's triangle theory of love. Both romantic and other interpersonal relationships can benefit from them.
Intimacy
The sensations of closeness, bonding, and connection that people feel in a romantic relationship are all part of intimacy. This frequently include sexual closeness in the early stages of a relationship. Emotional closeness becomes increasingly significant as the relationship develops.
Passion
This has to do with the romantic and physical attraction that people feel when they fall in love.
Commitment
Making the decision to remain with your spouse is a sign of commitment. People decide to work together to achieve common aims.
Romantic Love Phases
In a few predictable stages, romantic love frequently moves through several of Sternberg's categories of love. Infatuation or friendship may be the beginning of a relationship, which may subsequently develop into passionate love and, ultimately, complete love. Alternatively, it might go from lust to passionate love before becoming companionate or meaningless.
The brain releases neurochemicals called "feel-good" neurotransmitters, such dopamine and norepinephrine.2. These substances give us a joyful, energized, and euphoric feeling, which can occasionally result in sleeplessness and decreased appetite. It is possible to be so "in love" that you are unable to eat or sleep.
You think about the other person all the time because of the high you get during the infatuation phase, which makes you idealize them and desire to be with them all the time.
You are also unable to recognize their faults and limitations, since this person appears flawless at this point, which is why it's said that "love is blind." The period of infatuation usually lasts between six months and a year.
Disillusionment
Disillusionment is the first indication that the infatuation period is ending. As reality creeps in, you begin to see your partner's shortcomings. Some of the same qualities that once drew you in begin to exhibit their drawbacks. For instance, someone who once came across as assured and assertive may now come off as impolite and narrow-minded.
Furthermore, once the high wears off, you both begin to reveal your actual selves and are less selfless and forgiving than you were when your spouse seemed to be above reproach. Even though you may have initially made extra efforts to accommodate the other person, you can begin to feel as though your own needs aren't being satisfied.