R4. FAA: Filter Theory

Question 1

Filter Theory of Attraction

Answer 1

• Originally see ‘field of availables’ which is then narrowed down to ‘field of desireables’
• 3 filters of: social demography, attitude similarity, complementarity

Question 2

Filter 1

Answer 2

• social demography
• similarity in religion, sexuality, ethnicity, social class, educational attainment and proximity
• higher similarity means higher attraction
• proximity provides accessibility, so may ‘trump’ dissimilarities in other features

Question 3

Filter 2

Answer 3

• similarity in attitudes (basic similarities in core beliefs about: love, sex and religion)
• important in relationships < 18 months
• large dissimilarities causes incompatibility, and relationship to end

Question 4

Filter 3

Answer 4

• complementarity
• idea that the couple ‘complete’ each other as a ‘whole’
• ‘opposites attract’ idea, as an extrovert may encourage an introvert partner to socialise

Question 5

• Eval: Internet and Online Dating

Answer 5

‘Field of desirables’ is broader due to technology. Not restricted by social demographics such as proximity, class or culture. LOW TEMPORAL VALIDITY as it can only be restricted to pre-social media. Not fully invalid, as the system is still used.

Question 6

+ Eval: Predictor of Relationship Progression and Development

Answer 6

Initial similarities cited as main attractive features in partners of respondents. ‘Matching Hypothesis’ (based on similarity). Increasing validity of Filter Theory as narrowing down ‘availables’ to ‘desirables’

Question 7

• Eval: Evidence Against Importance of Initial Similarities

Answer 7

Convergence. Attitudes become similar over time anyway, due to living together. ‘Attitude Alignment Affect’.