Three-Component Model of Commitment

The Three-Component Model of Commitment explains why people stay committed to a relationship or organization through three factors: affective commitment (emotional attachment and liking), continuance commitment (costs of leaving, such as losing benefits or security), and normative commitment (a sense of obligation or moral duty). Together, these components influence an individual’s decision to remain involved, whether because they genuinely care, feel they should stay, or perceive leaving as too costly. This model helps understand the different motivations behind commitment and why some people stay even when circumstances change.