Formation

Question 1

What are the two formation theories?

Answer 1

Matching hypothesis and filter theory.

Question 2

What is the matching hypothesis?

Answer 2

Individuals are more likely to match and be successful with those who are of a similar attractiveness level.

Question 3

Give the 2 supporting studies for the matching hypothesis completed by the same person.

Answer 3

1. Walster’s computer dance (1966)
   - Boys asked for second date depending on looks, regardless of their own.
2. Berscheid and Walster’s computer dance II (1974)
   - Individuals asked for dates with a similar attractiveness level.

Question 4

Give the 2 supporting studies for the matching hypothesis which relied on rating of couples.

Answer 4

1. Murstein (1972)
   - Real life couple rated more similar on attractiveness than randomised couples (pictures).
2. Silverman (1972)
   - Couples in bars rated highly similar by 2 raters. Those closely matched were more intimate (interaction).

Question 5

Give two IDA problems with the matching hypothesis.

1 of these has a study attached

Answer 5

Cultural bias
- Not applicable to arranged marriages.
Beta-Bias
- Takeuchi (2006) found women rate social and economic security highly, so findings and theories cannot be applied across genders.

Question 6

Describe the three stages of the filter model.

Answer 6

1. Social and demographic variables
   - Class and cultural backgrounds.
2. ## Similarity of attitudes
3. Complementary emotional needs
   - Opposites attract: dominantdominated.

Question 7

Give a supporting study of the filter model which gives evidence for filter 1.

Answer 7

Gruber-Baldini (1995)

-Longitudinal 21 years. Those with similar education level at start likely to last the longest.

Question 8

Give a supporting study of the filter model which gives evidence for filters 1 and 2.
How could it be used against the theory also?

Answer 8

Sprecher (1998)
- Couples matched on physical attractiveness, interests and social background are likely to develop into long term relationships.
It finds physical attractiveness is important.

Question 9

Give a supporting study of the filter model which gives evidence for filters 2 and 3.

Answer 9

Kerckhoff & Davis (1962)

- Attitude similarity most important factor up to 18 months. After it is ability to meet needs.

Question 10

Give a supporting study of the filter model which gives evidence for filter 3.

Answer 10

Winch (1958)

- Happy relationships relied on the ability of the partners to meet the others’ emotional needs.