Final answer:
The three broad stages of romantic relationships are escalation, navigation, and deterioration. These stages are framed within Sternberg's triangular theory of love, highlighting intimacy, passion, and commitment as crucial components.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three broad stages of romantic relationships include escalation, navigation, and deterioration. Escalation pertains to the growth of intimacy and connection, navigation refers to the daily and long-term maintenance of the relationship, and deterioration describes the potential decline and resolution of the relationship. Sternberg's triangular theory of love, through components like intimacy, passion, and commitment, provides various types of love including consummate love, romantic love, and companionate love. The theory posits that the strongest, most enduring relationships are those with a balance of all three elements, leading to consummate love. Over time, romantic relationships have been influenced by societal changes, technological advancements, and evolving cultural norms. Despite these changes, certain fundamental desires for companionship and love remain constant.