Final answer:
The ABC(DE)s of romantic relationships involve Sternberg's triangular theory of love, which includes several types of love based on the presence or absence of intimacy, passion, and commitment. Social exchange theory explains how individuals assess the costs and benefits in relationships. Cultural and technological shifts influence practices in romantic relationships, though fundamental aspects like communication and attachment remain consistent.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ABC(DE)s of romantic relationships refer to different types of love as explained by Sternberg's triangular theory of love, which is based on the three components: intimacy, passion, and commitment. According to this theory, consummate love, which includes all three components, is seen as an ideal healthy relationship. However, there are other types of love characterized by differing combinations of these components:
- Liking: Intimacy without passion or commitment.
- Infatuation: Passion without intimacy or commitment.
- Empty Love: Commitment without intimacy or passion.
- Companionate Love: Intimacy and commitment, but no passion (often found in close friendships and family relationships).
- Romantic Love: Passion and intimacy with no commitment.
- Fatuous Love: Passion and commitment, but no intimacy.
Examples of relationships fitting these types vary: a new relationship might be mostly passion at first (infatuation), while a long-standing friendship might be marked by intimacy and commitment (companionate love).
Social exchange theory in relationships also plays a role, positing that people weigh the costs and benefits when forming and maintaining relationships. The forces shaping romantic relationships over time include cultural, social, technological, and individual factors, while certain practices, such as communication and expressing affection, have remained durable. Technologies like messaging impact how attachment is fostered, although too much reliance on text communication can perceive the relationship as less fulfilling compared to voice conversations.
In cultures, there are various practices, symbols, rituals, and sometimes disagreements about how people express romantic interest. Adolescence is a common stage for exploring romantic relationships due to increased sexual awareness, with priorities often shifting toward significant others in late adolescence. Despite changes over time, the basic need for connection and attachment continues to influence human behavior in romantic contexts, suggesting the persistence of some patterns in the future.