Filter theory Flashcards
Outline
explains how romantic relationships form and develop. There are three main filters to narrow down our range of partner choice to a field with each one assuming greater or lesser importance at different stages of a relationship.
Filter 1: Social demography
this refers to a wide range of factors which influence the chances of potential partners meeting each other in the first place such as: proximity, social class, level of education and so on.
This results in homogamy meaning that you are more likely to form a relationship with someone who is socially or culturally similar.
Filter 2: Similarity in attitudes
Important in the first 18 months that partners agree over basic values and things that really matter as it encourages self- disclosure.
Byrne (1997) defined this ‘law of attraction’
Filter 3: Complementarity
The ability of romantic partners to meet each others needs. I.E one partner may need looking after whilst the other enjoys to look after others.
This is more important for long term couples as it helps them work together as a team.
Evaluation strength: Winch (1958)
who found evidence that similarities of personality, interests and attitudes are typical of the earliest stages of a relationship. This is consistent with the filter theory.
Evaluation weakness: issues with defining a long term relationship
as the original theory said that the ‘cut off’ point is 18 months when the relationship stops being short term. This is difficult to apply to all types of relationships.
Evaluation weakness: lack historical validity
Online dating means that proximity is less as an issue as the internet allows us to be connected to people across the world. (out of date theory)
Evaluation weakness: Davis & Rusbult (2001)
who discovered that romantic partners over time bring their attitudes into line with each other’s differences rather than becoming more alike which the theory suggests.
