3. Physical Attractiveness

Question 1

what is the importance of symmetry? how does it effect mating? what research supports this?

Answer 1

Symmetry: indicates genetic fitness. Likely to have 2-3 times the amount of sexual partners if your face is symmetrical.

Research support: Cartwright: women with symmetrical breasts more fertile.

Question 2

what is the halo effect? what does it do? what did research find?

Answer 2

Preconceived ideas about the personality traits attractive people have.

Gunnell and Ceci found that in court, unattractive people were 22% more likely to be convicted of crime and sentence also likely to be 22 months longer.

Peterson and Peterson: attractive politicians seen as more capable.

Question 3

what is the matching hypothesis? what is the argument? what research supports this?

Answer 3

A persons choice of partner likely to be the most attractive possible without likelihood of being rejected.
Research support: Taylor et al: contacted those of more attractiveness (disproves matching hypothesis). Likely to respond if of equal attractiveness (proves matching hypothesis).

Question 4

other evaluation (3)

Answer 4

• halo-effect can be a self-fulfilling prophecy
• application to courts/teachers etc.
• Towhey: some more sensitive to physical attractiveness than others.