Physical attractiveness:

Question 1

Shackleford and Larson (1997): Facial symmetry:

Answer 1

Found people with symmetrical faces are rated more attractive. Signal of genetic fitness that cannot be faked.

Question 2

Neotenous features:

Answer 2

People attracted to ‘baby’ facial features e.g. large eyes, small nose. Features trigger caring and protective instinct - valued in females selection.

Question 3

Dion et al (1972): the halo effect:

Answer 3

Have preconceived ideas about personality traits attractive people must have - universally positive ideas.

Question 4

Walster et al (1966): Matching hypothesis:

Answer 4

People choose romantic partners of similar attractiveness to each other.

Question 5

Strength: cultural consistency:

Answer 5

Cultural consistency in attractiveness. Researcher found female neotenous features rated highly by white, Hispanic and Asian males. May have evolutionary roots.

Question 6

Limitation: online dating doesn’t support matching hypothesis.

Answer 6

Online dating doesn’t support matching hypothesis. Found online dates sought dates more attractive than them. Doesn’t consider social influences.

Question 7

Limitation: individual differences.

Answer 7

Individual differences. Those with high score on MACHO test more influenced by physical attractiveness when judging likeability. Low scorers less sensitive to this. Not everyone considers physical attractiveness important.