Relationahip Formation Flashcards
What do cognitive psychologists assume about schemas in relationships?
We use schemas (mental frameworks) to make judgements about others, including whether to form relationships with them.
What is a stereotype in the context of schemas?
A schema we hold about people or groups, which may influence how we judge or interact with them
What is the Halo Effect in relationships?
The assumption that physically attractive people also have positive personality traits (e.g., kind, intelligent).
What phrase summarises the Halo Effect?
“What is beautiful is good” – the belief that attractive people are also good in other ways.
How does the Halo Effect influence relationship formation?
We are more likely to approach and want relationships with attractive people due to our positive expectations.
What did Wheeler and Kim find about the Halo Effect?
Th effect varies by culture:
Canadians: associate attractiveness with strength and assertiveness
Koreans: associate it with sensitivity and generosity
How does the self-fulfilling prophecy relate to attractiveness?
Attractive people are more likely to be seen as popular and successful, which encourages behaviour that fulfils those expectations.
Give examples of self-fulfilling effects of attractiveness
More successful in dating
Chosen more often as friends
Perceived as more confident
Less stress during teen years
What is the Matching Hypothesis?
The idea that people choose romantic partners of similar attractiveness to themselves to maximise success.
What role do self-schemas play in the Matching Hypothesis?
Our beliefs about our own attractiveness influence who we think we can attract and form relationships with.
Why do people follow the Matching Hypothesis?
To avoid rejection by more attractive people and improve the chances of relationship success.
