Componentes básicos del amor: Algunas matizaciones al modelo de sternberg

Abstract

Among the most supposedly comprehensive theories about the structure and dynamics of love in relationships, one of the newest and most plausible is Sternberg’s (1986) Triangular Theory, proposing three basic love dimensions: “Intimacy”, “Passion” and “Commitment”. However a more detailed analysis of the model reveals some contradictions between the definition, evaluation and evolution of the components. In an attempt to overcome these contradictions we introduced a refinement of the model, dividing the original passion component into “Erotic Passion” and “Romantic Passion” (a division that has been made before in specialized literature, but is not specifically included in Sternberg’s model). We tested the theoretical model in a sample of 412 subjects, gathering information by means of a questionnaire including items from Sternberg and other authors. Data analysis offers some empirical support for the factorial structure of the proposed model. We suggest subsequent confirmation of the model, using other kinds of instruments and samples, as well as the verification of the dynamic side of the model: the evolution of the components throughout the love relationship. © 1996 by Aprendizaje.