What is liking in Sternberg's model?

Liking is intimacy without passion or commitment. You feel emotionally close, enjoy the person's company, trust them, and share thoughts and feelings, but lack sexual attraction and long-term intentions.

How does liking differ from friendship?

In Sternberg's framework, liking is specifically the emotional component. Friendship is a broader term that can include various combinations. A close friend might be liking (intimacy-only) or companionate love (intimacy + commitment).

Can liking develop into romantic love?

Yes. Many successful relationships begin with liking, then passion develops, followed by commitment. This trajectory often results in more stable love than infatuation-first relationships.

Is liking enough for a romantic relationship?

Alone, no. Most people require passion or commitment for a romantic relationship. However, liking is an excellent foundation—many recommend marrying your best friend (liking with added commitment).

Personalitysternberg-love attachment-styles

Liking vs. Friendship: When Only Intimacy Is Present

Peter Kolomiets

|March 24, 2026|Updated Apr 13, 2026|6 min read

Liking vs. Friendship: When Only Intimacy Is Present

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References

Sternberg, R. J. (1986). A Triangular Theory of Love
Sprecher, S., & Regan, P. C. (2006). Companionate and Passionate Love in Courting and Young Married Couples
Neff, L. A., & Karney, B. R. (2009). Friendship as a Foundation for Romantic Love