Companionate Love

Definition

This is a type of love characterized by deep affection, intimacy, trust, and commitment. It's the kind of love that develops over time in long-term relationships.

Analogy

Think of companionate love as a slow-cooked meal. It takes time to prepare and simmer, but the result is a rich, satisfying dish full of complex flavors. Unlike passionate love (which can be compared to fast food - quick, intense but often short-lived), companionate love has depth and longevity.

Related terms

Attachment: This refers to the emotional bond that forms between individuals, often seen in close relationships such as parent-child or romantic partners.

Intimacy: In psychology terms, this refers to a deep understanding and acceptance of another person, usually resulting from shared experiences or thoughts.

Commitment: This term refers to the decision to maintain a relationship over time despite difficulties or challenges that may arise.