The Different Characteristics of Love

Commitment

"Love" Changes over time

*Important to know that the beginning stages of romantic relationships are typically not very realistic. It associates a rush of chemicals in the brain in the infatuation stage of the relationship

Intimacy

Passion

Love is often confused by chemistry

Our Language for Love is Inadequate

Real Love Grows Over Time While Superficial Love will Fade

*Real love realizes that love does not just "happen" but makes time, effort, and commitment to build.

Love is Paradoxical

meaning it is self-contradictory

*In a relationship, 'love' may help get it started but it is not enough to make the relationship last

*People often claim to be in 'love' when they experience a physical attraction to someone

*Love is much more complex than what we often express

Giving Love is Receiving Love

*Love is unique in that the more you give, the more you will have to give and the more you will receive

Companionate love-

Infatuation-

Romantic Love-

Empty Love-

Consummate Love

This is complete love, containing all three dimensions.

Important to know that even within one relationship, it is possible to experience two or more types of love over time.

*These couples have both commitment and Intimacy,but lack passion after time has passed

Love is Often "Misdiagnosed"

*People often make the mistake of using the word 'love' when what they are really describing is passion, excitement, enjoyment, or need

A relationship with commitment but lack passion or intimacy

*Can happen in a relationship with no commitment

Fatuous Love

Between commitment and passion

*This would be a relationship the involves commitment on the basis of passion but has not had the time to develop true intimacy

'Liking' someone begins when there is JUST intimacy. (No Passion or Commitment)