One of the first theories of love was developed by Sigmund Freud. As Freud so frequently attributed human nature to subconscious and unconscious desires, his theory of love centered around the need for an "ego ideal.[3]" His definition of an ego ideal is this: the image of the person that one wants to become, which is patterned after those whom one holds with great respect.
Another theory was introduced by Maslow. Maslow's hierarchy of needs places self-actualization at the peak. He maintains that those who have reached self-actualization are capable of love.[4]
Yet another theory, one about Being love, was developed by Reik. Being love was said to be attainable for those who could love for the sake of loving people, not just fixing one's own problem.[4]
When theories about love moved from being clinically based to being socially and personality based, they became focused on types of love, as opposed to becoming able to love.