1 Psychology and human development1.10 Social psychology
1.10.3.4 Cooperation and love
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Written by Resident Doctor Committee · Published
New in the 2027 syllabus
The College added this topic for exams from January 2027.
Cooperation
Cooperation means people coordinating their actions towards outcomes that are shared or compatible. It can depend on trust, on reciprocity (each side returning what it receives) and on expectations about future dealings.
A social dilemma arises when a choice that suits one person harms the group if everyone makes it.
Communication and repeated interaction help cooperation by making intentions and consequences more predictable.
Forms of love
Component in Sternberg's triangular theory | Meaning |
|---|---|
Intimacy | Closeness, connection and sharing personal things with each other |
Passion | Arousal and desire |
Commitment | The decision to keep the relationship going |
In this model:
Romantic love combines intimacy and passion.
Companionate love combines intimacy and commitment.
Consummate love includes all three components.
These labels describe a theory. They are not a diagnostic scale or an ideal that every relationship must reach.
What draws people together need not keep them together. Initial attraction may rest on proximity (being physically near each other) or appearance. A lasting relationship depends more on ongoing reciprocity, trust and shared values.