4. Filter Theory

Question 1

what is social demography? research support (2)

Answer 1

Social demography: largest filter. Explains limits that are geographic; social class etc.

Research support: Festinger et al: stairway in an apartment block most likely to form relationships faster.

Taylor et al: 85% of American marriages in 2008 were to someone of the same ethnic group

Question 2

what is similarity in attitudes? research support.

Answer 2

Similarity in attitudes: similar beliefs, values and attitudes.

Research support: Byrne: people that share same beliefs more liked than people who do not.

Question 3

what is complementarity? research support

Answer 3

Complementarity: how well they can meet each others needs.

Research support: Sadalla et al: women more attracted to males who are reliable, confident etc. as indicates they can provide resources.

Question 4

evaluation (4)

Answer 4

• Complementarity reinforced by socio-biological explanation.
• Gruber-Baldini et al: longitudinal study of couples aged 21 and found those who were similar in age and education more successful.
• Davis and Rusbult: attitude alignment within relationship as it progresses, suggest that similarity in attitudes may be an effect that develops over time.
• Lack of temporal validity: online dating and virtual relationships allows social demography (geographical) to be less prominent. Issues of class and ethnicity also diminishing due to progressive society.

Question 5

whos theory is this?

Answer 5

Kerckhoff and Davis