In Sternberg's Love Triangle, which component is described as developing the slowest?

In Sternberg's Love Triangle, intimacy is recognized as the component that typically develops the slowest in a romantic relationship. Intimacy refers to feelings of closeness, connectedness, and bondedness with another person. It involves sharing personal thoughts, emotions, and experiences, which requires trust and vulnerability.

This gradual progression allows partners to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another, fostering a secure emotional base that is critical for nurturing a lasting relationship. As individuals take the time to learn about each other, their level of intimacy often builds through shared experiences and the establishment of a safe space for open communication.

While passion—often characterized by physical attraction and sexual desire—can ignite rapidly, and commitment—reflecting the decision to maintain the relationship—might develop more quickly due to feelings of affection or societal expectations, intimacy necessitates a more careful approach. It is often only through the reality of shared experiences over time that true intimacy develops, which can make it the slowest component to solidify in the love triangle model.