Positive Psychology

Sternberg’s theory is there are different types of love and relationships people encounter. There is Fatuous love, Romantic love, Compassionate love, and consummate love. While all these types are filled with different emotions Sternberg has narrowed them down to three; which he calls the love triangle. Intimacy, passion, and commitment are the main major components of love.

There are many different positive ways of strengthening love. Communication is the far most important strategy for strengthening a relationship. Make sure to devote time to talk; cut out all distractions whether it is the television, phone, and computer and so on. Making time to talk to your loved one gives you both the chance to get to know each other better. Even if you have been with someone for many years you can still learn something new about each other. Another part of communication is handling conflict constructively. To have a healthy relationship we need to accept that people have different opinions about different matters in life. Just because we do not agree with each other does not necessarily mean that one is wrong and the other is right.

Showing affection is another important strategy in strengthening love. Holding hands, cuddling, random kisses, and so on are ways to keep a relationship alive. People strive for attention it is in our nature and if someone is not getting it where they want it they will get it somewhere else. Expressing admiration is another strategy. This means to not only show your partner that you appreciate them but tell them. People want to hear that you are proud of them or you appreciate them. Creating a shared meaning is another strategy. Trying new things help create successful relationships.