RELATIONSHIPS

Question 1

Outline the matching hypothesis theory

Answer 1

The matching hypothesis theory states that we are more likely to be attached to people who are of similar physical attractiveness to ourselves.

Question 2

what are the two types of faces stated in the matching hypothesis theory

Answer 2

1. Symmetrical faces = more attractive as is a sign of similar physixcal attractiveness to ourselves according to the matching hypothesis theory.
2. Neotenous faces (babyface) = widely separated large eyes , small chin and nose = trigger a caring instinct

Question 3

Outline the Halo effect

Answer 3

The belief that good looking people will have characteristics like being kind, strong, sociable and successful makes them more attractive to us , so we behave more positively towards them.

Question 4

Outline Walster’s research ( the computer dance experiment 1966 )

Answer 4

Elaine and her colleagues recruited 752 first years from university of Minnesota. Matched randomly but made to be believe it was computer generated. PPs completed questionnaires used during paring. Researchers also used physical attractiveness ratings. They attended the dance with another pp of the opposite sex. After the dance pps were asked if they wanted to go on a second date , and were asked about their attraction and satisfaction to their partner.

FINDINGS
The study found that physical attractiveness was the primary factor determining whether pps wanted to pursue further contact with their date . Other variables , like personality and aptitude , did not significantly influence this decision

Participants were generally more interested in dates they found attractive , regardless of their own attraction levels . This finding suggests that people initially prioritize physical appearance over other factors in forming attraction

Question 5

Evaluate Walster’s matching hypothesis research

Answer 5

STRENGHTHS
1. pioneering research- Walster’s research was one of the first to investigate matching hypothesis and attraction , laying a foundation for future studies on romantic relationships.
2. Controlled setting - The controlled setting of the dance allowed researchers to observe participants’ reactions to their randomly allocated dates in a realistic social environment , capturing genuine attraction behaviour.

LIMITATIONS
1. Limited focus on physical attractiveness - Although the study aimed to consider multiple factors , it ultimately focused heavily on physical attractiveness , as other factors eg. personality did not significantly influence participants dating interest. This focus may have simplified attraction, overlooking other qualities that could become important over time.

2. Sampling Bias - The sample consisted entirely of young American college students , limiting the generalizability of findings across different age groups , cultural backgrounds , or socioeconomic .The results may not apply to all populations

Question 6

Outline the Social Exchange Theory ( Walster )

Answer 6

An economic model of relationships based on the idea of fairness for each partner , emphasises the need for each partner to experience a balance between their perceived inputs and outputs.