Passionate love has a strong emotional and physical aspect with feelings of longing, enthusiasm, and exaltation. Psychologists view this stage as the first phase of a courtship, as there is a predominance of intense preoccupation within the cognitive system of the individual. In Sternberg’s triangular theory of love, passionate love is one component alongside intimacy and commitment. This form of love may later assume the form of companionate love, which is based on strong affection and calmness. For example, being on cloud nine and daydreaming about a new partner illustrates the experience of passionate love.
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